Americans Say Masks Are “Necessary” To Prevent COVID-19 Spread

From grocery stores to airline flights, America’s debate over wearing face masks is playing out on small and large screens globally. What was once seen as a medical imperative has become politicized. Some see mask mandates as an infringement on their constitutional rights, and others, a patriotic duty. According to our research, however, most Americans have this collective request, “wear a damn mask.”

ThinkNow conducted a nationwide online survey among American adults ages 18 to 64 to get their perspective on COVID-19 and wearing face coverings. Nearly half of Americans surveyed are “very concerned” about the pandemic, and 63% say it's “extremely important” to wear a face mask, especially when indoors with others. That number drops by half when walking or running outdoors.

Generationally, Gen X is most concerned about COVID-19, and many factors are contributing to those concerns. In addition to the health risks, many parents share the added strain of working from home while also managing their children’s virtual learning. Gen Z, ages 18-22, on the other hand, are least concerned. These numbers shift when looking at the importance of wearing face masks. Boomers are dominant here, followed closely by Gen X, who prefer masks to be worn during large outdoor public gatherings and indoors while attending church, gyms, malls, etc.

To see more insights, check out the infographic below.