An opinion survey by Understanding Animal Research (UAR) has shown a high public acceptance of animal research to find treatments for Covid-19.
During the current UK lockdown, 1027 individuals answered the survey, and the main findings were:
73% accepted that scientific research using animals such as mice, dogs and monkeys, would be important to develop treatments and vaccines for Covid-19.
A tenth (11%) of people feel that their views on animal research and testing have changed since the Covid-19 outbreak. In all cases, these people are more accepting of using animals in research.
77% said that they trusted UK researchers to provide a solution to Covid-19.
92% were aware that animals are used to try to develop new treatments and procedures for specific diseases.
Bella Williams, UAR head of engagement said: “Overwhelmingly the public trust and support the efforts of scientists and those who work with them to find a solution to ending the pandemic, and they are more aware than before that this is likely to mean using animals in research."