DENVER — Most Colorado residents are very concerned about COVID-19 in the state and are taking steps to prevent the spread of the disease, according to results from a survey released Saturday by the Colorado Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
Out of nearly 45,000 Coloradans who completed the survey, 72% of respondents marked they were “very concerned” about the infectious disease. But the level of concern goes down slightly among younger respondents (18-29), 59% of whom said they too were “very concerned.”
Only 3% think the virus isn’t that serious, according to survey results.
Nearly 90% of respondents think it’s somewhat or very likely that they would get sick from the novel coronavirus, and half of those asked said they are anxious over the pandemic.
That concern may be why the vast majority of respondents said they are taking preventive measures to protect them from the virus and mitigate the spread COVID-19 in the state.
- 97% are washing their hands with soap and water more frequently.
- 96% are avoiding large gatherings.
- 70% are working from home.
- 35% are stockpiling food and other household items.
On Wednesday, Gov. Jared Polis issued a statewide stay-at-home order, effective 6 a.m. Thursday through April 11.
Polis said all of the state's more than 5,700,000 residents should only interact with people in their own households and should only leave their homes for essentials, such as groceries and medical care. Businesses deemed "critical" will be exempt from the order but will still be required to take social distancing measures. Read the full order here.
The state had tested 11,676 in 42 counties. More than 1,700 people have tested positive for COVID-19. Thirty-one people have died, according to the latest update from the CDPHE.