Most People Wear Masks When Necessary

Though a large majority (83%) of Americans believe wearing a mask is an effective way to protect themselves from the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, many still don’t wear them, according to new findings from the USC Dornsife Understanding Coronavirus in America Study, which was published on January 21, 2021.

The vast majority of Americans wore face masks while grocery shopping, which was the most common activity reported. Of those who shopped for groceries in December 2020, 90% said they wore a mask.

However, only 42% of people in rural areas wore a mask always or most of the time while close to people outside their household. This data compares to 52% of people in suburban locales and 57% of people in urban locales.

“These findings indicate a need to redouble efforts to convey consistent messages about the overall importance of wearing masks, but more than that, where and when to wear them,” said these researchers. “Too many people seem to lack a clear understanding of the risks posed by friends and family outside their immediate households.”