According to new research, the majority of people hold negative views about those who test positive for the coronavirus.
Despite how easily the virus spreads, a large portion of people from across all socio-demographic groups hold the view that those who test positive for the disease have been careless.
According to new Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) research, almost half of people do not know that calling their GP to discuss symptoms of Covid-19 is free and over one third think they could be charged for a test.
These wrongly perceived costs could deter or delay people from arranging a test if they experience symptoms, it was also claimed.
The findings are based on a nationally representative survey of 1,000 adults in Ireland run in early July, which examined public understanding of the Covid-19 test-and-trace system to identify potential barriers to engagement.
Misconceptions about the system could mean people don’t seek a test as quickly as possible.
Respondents were asked about each stage of the process, from arranging a test to getting results and notifying close contacts if necessary.
The study found overwhelming public support for the system, but just 3% were able to answer all comprehension questions correctly.
Fear of being blamed may be a barrier to arranging a test quickly when symptoms appear, the survey found.
Younger adults were more likely to be affected by the issues identified.
People in their 20s and 30s were less likely to know the GP consultation is free, more likely to believe getting tested would be a hassle and uncomfortable, more pessimistic about result waiting times and more worried about being identified by their close contacts.
Dr Shane Timmons of the ESRI’s behavioural research unit said: “The public overwhelmingly agree that the test-and-trace system is vital for controlling the spread of Covid-19, but misconceptions about the system could mean people don’t seek a test as quickly as possible.
“You should call any GP or out-of-hours service straight away if you suspect that you might have symptoms – doing so is free and can help make sure you don’t spread the virus to someone else.”
