The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services reports that a statewide public opinion survey conducted among residents in late February reveals a majority of Alaskans approve of the State’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic response. The survey also measured awareness of the State’s vaccine distribution efforts, revealing a majority of residents who are already, or intend to become, vaccinated.
According to the survey, 58% say Alaska no longer is facing a health care emergency (a decrease of 4% from November). 48% say the measures taken by the State have been appropriate (an increase of 13% from November). 86% say the vaccine distribution has been successful so far. 60% say they feel comfortable getting back to their regular daily routines. 41% say they have begun the vaccination process, and 58% say they have been vaccinated or intend to get vaccinated when it becomes available.
(NOTE – the poll was conducted before the announcement opening vaccinations to Alaskans or workers age 16 years or older.)
Governor Mike Dunleavy, “I got to say that a lot of Alaskans, a lot of Alaskans, too many to count have responded and really helped with this process. I would say it’s a combination of getting the vaccine, but also just our systems and the people of Alaska that really know how to deal with emergencies and catastrophes. We talked about this, earthquakes, fires, it doesn’t matter, but Alaskans, I think, the story will be written that they really stood up in this pandemic. In the end, I think we’ve done a pretty good job in addressing the issue. It’s not over, but one of these days it will be over and we’ll be able to look back on it.”
The survey was conducted February 23 – 28th by Dittman Research. In total, 807 Alaska residents, aged 18 and older, participated in the survey. Survey questions asked participants for their opinions on a variety of topics relating to the COVID-19 virus including the state of the virus in Alaska, awareness of the State’s vaccine distribution efforts, intentions of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, and state and health officials’ responses and prevention measures.
