Survey: 3 In 4 Americans Say They Are In Favor Of Face Masks

As many as three out of four Americans say that they are in favor of a face mask requirement when in public as the number of positive coronavirus cases rises, a survey conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research indicated Thursday.

The results of the study, which polled 1,057 American adults from July 16 to July 20, come as more cities and states mandate face masks for their residents when in public. Baltimore, the District of Columbia, Ohio and Alabama are among the locations that recently have issued face mask requirements.

The survey showed Democrats strongly favor a face mask mandate, as 89% of the respondents said they agree with mask mandates while only 58% of Republicans said they favor requirements to wear face masks in public.

Health officials have said face masks can prevent the spread of the coronavirus. The survey indicated 86% of Americans say they now wear one when leaving their homes, an increase from 73% in May.

The survey also indicated 95% of Democrats wear face masks while only 75% of Republicans do.

About half of Americans who participated in the survey said they are extremely worried or very worried about themselves or relatives contracting the coronavirus, with 85% saying they are avoiding large groups -- another of the suggestions promoted by health officials.

About half of Americans favor staying home except for essential trips, with this same proportion also saying they think bars and restaurants should be closed.

The survey indicated two-thirds of Americans disapprove of how President Trump is handling the pandemic.

The U.S. has reported more than 3.9 million positive cases of the coronavirus, with deaths from COVID-19 topping 143,000, Johns Hopkins University said.