A comprehensive new Axios-Ipsos poll reveals that five years after the start of the COVID pandemic, its impact is still being felt, with Americans’ views on the crisis starkly divided along partisan lines. While two-thirds of Americans believe the nation is not adequately prepared to deal with another pandemic or widespread health crisis, trust in public health institutions and leaders remains low.
The poll also shows that partisanship plays a significant role in shaping attitudes towards COVID-19. For example, only 1 in 10 Republicans trust Dr. Anthony Fauci for information on health topics, compared to nearly three-fourths of Democrats. The divide is also reflected in opinions on the effectiveness of vaccines and masks, with more than half of Americans believing that public health officials lied about their ability to prevent the spread of the virus.
The data suggests that the politicization of COVID-19 has had a lasting impact on American society, with many people still struggling with mental health issues, finances, and work-life balance. The perception of COVID-19 as a threat has also decreased significantly over the past year, with only 17% of adults reporting receiving a COVID booster in the last three months.
Overall, the Axios-Ipsos poll provides valuable insights into the ongoing polarization and public health concerns surrounding COVID-19, highlighting the need for continued education and awareness efforts to address these issues.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/03/11/covid-poll-americans-republicans-democrats-views