It’s a different mindset more than anything. Although American cultural influences have introduced the benefits of individualism to the Anglophone nations, we are collectivist societies at our core, with a centralised and powerful (compared the the US) ‘Federal’ Government. It’s not necessarily a bad thing. However in this case, it means it’s easier to implement draconian measures and have public support for it. FWIW, the U.K. and Canada are easing up from lockdowns which is positive. New Zealand’s policy towards it was heavy handed but successful in enabling quick restoration of normality. Australian policy is an unmitigated disaster though.