63% of Europeans, 19% of Malaysians had discussed the pandemic with friends (p
In data collected only in Europe, 64% greatly underestimated the mortality rates of seasonal flu, 26% believed seasonal flu vaccination gave protection against swine flu. 7% had reduced / stopped eating pork.
3% had purchased anti-viral drugs for use at home, while 32% intended to do so if the pandemic worsened.
Conclusions: Initial responses to Influenza A show large regional differences in anxiety, with Malaysians more anxious and more likely to reduce travel and to buy masks and food. Discussions with family and friends may reinforce existing anxiety levels.
Particular groups (homosexuals, prostitutes, the homeless) are perceived at greater risk, potentially leading to increased prejudice during a pandemic. Europeans underestimated mortality of seasonal flu, and require more information about the protection given by seasonal flu inoculation.

See the full article from “7thSpace Interactive (press release)”