Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

8-1-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Sociology

First Advisor

William Donner

Second Advisor

Dean Kyne

Third Advisor

Arlett Lomeli

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown substantial gaps in counties' preparedness and response capacity across the United States. This study analyzes the relationship between county-level pandemic preparedness and confirmed COVID-19 cases using secondary data from the FEMA's National Household Survey (NHS) and county-level COVID-19 data from the CDC. The data show a negative relationship between preparedness levels and COVID-19 positive rates, highlighting the necessity of proactive readiness measures. Individual risk assessment, motivation for preparedness, and socioeconomic variables have a major influence on confirmed cases. Higher levels of education, income, and preparedness are associated with lower positive rates, emphasizing the importance of structural support and access to resources in promoting resilience. The study emphasizes various components of pandemic readiness and management. To obtain the best results, it is critical to combine individual-focused measures with institutional support, pay attention to demographic and socioeconomic differences, and distribute credible and balanced information to increase motivation and preparedness among populations. If these issues are adequately addressed, policymakers can devise more effective and equitable responses to future public health.

Comments

Copyright 2024 Jessy Rugeyo. https://proquest.com/docview/3116106067

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