Researchers analyzed 30 days of COVID19 mortality rates, trust, and income inequality in 84 countries.
We often connect with friends and family during crises.
In some countries, this may be interfering with physical distancing to control COVID19.
Moreover, strong group bonds often mean that they are susceptible to misinformation about COVID19's severity, bogus treatments, or dismissing physical distancing.
The study also found that a lack of confidence in state institutions is associated with more deaths, but confidence in public institutions and civic participation was linked to fewer deaths.
Finally, countries with a large rich-poor gap are experiencing a deadlier pandemic. Many countries have lower-wage workers over-represented in retail, and public-transit.
This means greater exposure to COVID19 and less access to healthcare.
This could explain why more economically unequal countries like America and Russia experienced significantly higher mortality rates.
Original article:
Trust and income inequality fueling spread of COVID-19
Original study: