Yet the virus has locked down much of the U.S. population, raising concerns about a low response. It has virtually shuttered the economy and forced the U.S. Census Bureau to push hiring half a million temporary field census takers responsible for filling in the gaps. The bureau also has delayed the start of counts for the homeless and people living in group quarters like college dorms and nursing homes. It has pushed back the deadline for wrapping up the headcount from the end of July to mid-August.