Policies to influence perceptions about COVID-19 risk: The case of maps

Choropleth disease maps are often used to inform the public about the risks posed by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). In a survey conducted in the U.S. state of Georgia in June 2020, we randomly assigned respondents to view either of two maps. The first map reported county-level COVID case counts; the second displayed case rates per 100,000 people. Respondents who saw case rate maps were less likely to perceive COVID as mostly an urban problem and reported higher levels of concerns about the virus. Case rate maps also increased support for policies aimed at mitigating the spread of the virus, although, for this outcome, the effect was quantitatively small and the maps did not change individuals' self-reported behavior. For several outcomes, the impact of the case rate map was strongest for rural residents and self-identified Republicans, both of whom were less worried about the virus and more skeptical about public health measures to mitigate its spread.

Automated summary

Choropleth disease maps, particularly those displaying case rates, have the potential to increase public concern and support for policies aimed at mitigating the spread of COVID-19. However, their impact on individuals' self-reported behavior may be limited.