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Coronavirus volunteers: Greater satisfaction thanks to online platforms

A study by the University of Basel found that online platforms have a positive impact on volunteer mobilization, willingness, and satisfaction. Volunteers who were more afraid of catching the virus experienced higher satisfaction through boosts in self-confidence. The findings suggest that online platforms can channel oversupply and re...

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNonprofit and Voluntary Sector Quarterly·DateOct 26, 2020

Survey: More US Adults want the government to have a bigger role in improving peoples' lives than before the pandemic

A new survey found that over 40% of US adults support a stronger government role in society, with majority backing health, unemployment, and income-related policies. The findings suggest growing support for extending social safety net policies passed during the pandemic.

SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateOct 15, 2020

Preferences for public allocation of vaccine for COVID-19

A survey study explores public preferences for COVID-19 vaccine allocation. The results show that most people prioritize vaccine distribution to high-risk groups, including seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions. This preference is expected to influence healthcare policy decisions.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 29, 2020

Criticism of COVID-19 models by democratic political leaders may erode public trust in science

A study finds that criticism of COVID-19 models by Democratic elites undermines public support for the models and science more broadly. Republicans have little impact on public attitudes towards models. Scientists should acknowledge model uncertainty and convey what is known about the virus to build trust.

COVID-19 antibody studies across Brazil reveal Amazon region badly affected, with poorer Indigenous communities hit hardest

Nationwide COVID-19 antibody seroprevalence studies in Brazil show that cities along the Amazon River were severely affected at the beginning of the pandemic, as well as poorer and Indigenous communities. The research highlights a cluster of high prevalence in 11 cities along the Amazon River, with levels among the highest ever reported.

Certain coping strategies can help offset pandemic's mental health hits

Researchers at Penn State found that certain coping techniques, such as wearing masks and focusing on self-care, were associated with positive mental health outcomes during the pandemic. These strategies, along with protecting oneself from COVID-19 and seeking support, can help bolster mental health.

SourcePenn State·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateSep 14, 2020

When it comes to supporting candidates, ideology trumps race and gender

A study by the American Psychological Association reveals that ideology is a more significant factor than demographics in determining voter support for politicians. Despite expressing prejudice against minorities and women, voters tend to support conservative candidates who align with their ideologies, regardless of race or sex.

SourceAmerican Psychological Association·JournalJournal of Personality and Social Psychology·DateAug 24, 2020

Poor work-life balance may have negative health effects

A study published in BMC Public Health found that poor work-life balance is associated with poor general health, particularly among women. The researchers analyzed data from 32,275 working adults across 30 countries and found that workers who reported poor work-life balance were twice as likely to report poor health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Public Health·DateJul 15, 2020

Distorted passage of time during the COVID-19 lockdown

A survey of 604 UK participants found that over 80% experienced changes to their perception of time during the lockdown, with slower passage associated with older age and reduced social satisfaction. The study suggests that significant changes to daily routine can distort our perception of time.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 9, 2020

Elderly people's response to COVID-19 not as expected

A study examining elderly people's attitudes and compliance with COVID-19 preventative measures found that older adults are not more willing to isolate or wear masks, despite being most vulnerable to severe illness. However, they are more likely to avoid public transportation and small gatherings.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 2, 2020

Showing pro-diversity feelings are the norm makes individuals more tolerant

A new study from University of Wisconsin-Madison found that showing people how their peers feel about diversity can increase tolerance, reduce exclusion, and close racial achievement gaps. The intervention, which used social marketing strategies, resulted in enhanced sense of belonging among marginalized groups and reduced intergroup a...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJul 1, 2020

Survey finds US adults largely supported measures to limit spread of COVID-19 in May

A survey of US adults in May found widespread support for public health measures to limit the spread of COVID-19. Almost 80% of respondents supported stay-at-home orders and nonessential business closures, with high levels of adherence to public health recommendations such as using cloth face coverings and maintaining physical distancing.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalMMWR Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report·DateJun 19, 2020

As food insecurity continues to plague New Yorkers, impact on children is worrisome

A recent survey by the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health found that one in four households with children under 18 have reported a child experiencing hunger, leading to weight loss and health concerns. The survey also highlights widening dietary inequities among low-income and minority households.

SourceCUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy·JournalJournal of Health Communication·DateJun 15, 2020

Public health training in climate change: What are prospective employers thinking?

Researchers found that 92% of employers believe public health professionals with climate change training will be in high demand in the next 5-10 years. Employers value skills such as knowledge of climate mitigation, health equity, and risk assessment. The study analyzed 16 years' worth of job postings to project future workforce needs.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·DateMay 4, 2020