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Wang Y, Qi L, Cai S. How can the collaborative participation of regulators, whistleblowers, and parties effectively promote rumor management in public health emergencies? Front Public Health 2024; 11:1290841. [PMID: 38259753 PMCID: PMC10800363 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1290841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
To effectively address the mental health risks associated with public health emergencies, it is crucial to actively manage rumors. This study explores the dynamic evolutionary process of rumor diffusion and its collaborative governance in public health emergencies. A game-theoretic model is constructed, involving three main actors: regulators, parties involved in public health emergencies (PIPHE), and whistle-blowers. The behaviors and game outcomes of each party are analyzed, and the effectiveness and feasibility of the model are validated through numerical simulations. The findings of this study reveal that various factors, such as regulatory costs, penalty income, reputation damage for regulators; image loss, reputation enhancement, penalty expenditure for PIPHE; and time costs, social responsibility, and reward income for whistle-blowers, all influence the behavioral choices and game equilibrium of each party. Optimization strategies for rumor governance are proposed in this study, including enhancing the sense of responsibility and capability among regulators, increasing transparency and credibility among PIPHE, and encouraging and protecting the participation of whistle-blowers. This study provides a comprehensive analytical framework for rumor governance in public health emergencies, contributing to improving the governance of public health emergencies and maintaining online public health orders for social sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalin Wang
- Guangzhou Huashang College, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liping Qi
- School of Humanities, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shaoshuo Cai
- School of Journalism and Communication, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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Olaoye A, Onyenankeya K. A systematic review of health communication strategies in Sub-Saharan Africa-2015-2022. Health Promot Perspect 2023; 13:10-20. [PMID: 37309431 PMCID: PMC10257569 DOI: 10.34172/hpp.2023.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Health communication strategies have become critical in managing public health issues across sub-Saharan Africa. In the literature, health communication strategies have been well documented. The studies are often narrow, focusing on individual countries or specific health issues. No research documented and consolidated the health communication strategies across sub-Saharan Africa. This review attempts to catalogue prevalent health communication strategies, how the various countries have implemented these strategies and the barriers to effective health communication practices in Africa. Methods: We systematically reviewed existing literature on health communication strategies in sub-Saharan Africa to answer formulated questions. A Google search was performed in October 2022 with the keywords 'health communication', 'strategies', 'promotion,' 'education,' and 'engagement,' The data reported in this article included evidence published between 2013 and 2023. Selected documents were content analyzed, and significant sections were mapped against specific strategies/themes. These subsets of data were used to present the results and analysis. Results:The review indicates that different health communication strategies have been deployed across Africa. In some countries, specific strategies are used to tackle specific health issues, while a combination of strategies is used in others. In some countries, the strategies are unclear, and implementation is improvised, sometimes misapplied, or truncated by bureaucratic red tape and incompetence. The prevalent strategies are mainly those prescribed from outside with little input from the beneficiaries. Conclusion: The review suggests that using a holistic or multi-pronged health communication approach that is context-specific and participatory could attract more uptakes of health messages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adewale Olaoye
- University of Fort Hare, Alice, Eastern Cape, South Africa
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Diallo CO, Schiøler KL, Samuelsen H, Drabo KM. Information System as part of epidemic management in Burkina Faso: from plan to reality (Field Findings). BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1726. [PMID: 36096785 PMCID: PMC9465128 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14072-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health information systems (HIS) in most developing countries face many challenges. In view of the recurrent weaknesses in preparedness and response during the management of epidemics, we have examined the organization and functioning of the health information system in Burkina Faso. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study from January 1, 2020 to March 31, 2020 including a review of HIS documents, key informant interviews and direct observations. The study was conducted at the public primary health care (PHC) and community level of Bama and Soumagou, in the rural health districts of Dandé and Tenkodogo. Study participants included community-based health workers (CBHWs) and health workers in the PHC areas, community-based organization animators (CBOAs), CBO monitoring-evaluation officers and members of the District management team (DMT). RESULTS While reporting forms used in all health facilities are standardized, they are not necessarily well understood at community level and at the health centers. Reports prepared by CBHWs are often delayed by the head nurse at the primary health care service. Case definitions of epidemic diseases are not always well understood by community-based health workers and front-line health workers. CONCLUSION The health information system in Burkina Faso can be improved using simple strategies. There is a need to hold regular training/refresher sessions for agents involved in surveillance and to ensure the development of simplified case definitions for emerging diseases and/or diseases of public health interest for community use. Furthermore, existing epidemic management committees need to be revitalized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheick Omar Diallo
- University of Ouagadougou, 09 P.O. Box: 480, Ouagadougou 09, Burkina Faso.
| | - Karin Linda Schiøler
- Global health section, Department Public Health, University of Copenhagen (UCPH), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helle Samuelsen
- Department of Anthropology, University of Copenhagen (UCPH), Copenhagen, Denmark
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Rastogi T, Awasthi S, Khare R, Prasad M, Sami G, Verma VK. Perceptions and practices of COVID-19 protective measures among the general public of North India. CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2022; 13:100927. [PMID: 34926866 PMCID: PMC8668603 DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2021.100927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND India has a high COVID-19 burden. The Indian government responded to the pandemic by mandating its population to adhere to certain Protective Measures (PMs). Compliance to these PMs depends on their acceptability and adaptability among the general public. AIMS To explore the perceptions and practices of COVID-19 related PMs among the general public of North India. METHODS Qualitative study in four administrative districts (Lucknow, Etawah, Patna and Darbhanga) of North India. Two urban and two rural districts were purposefully selected. Audio in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with healthy caregivers of children (2-59 months). Data was managed using Atlast Ti and analyzed using conventional content analysis. RESULTS From July-Sep 2020, 60 IDIs were conducted; 36.6% (22/60) were females and 26.6% (16/60) had below primary education. Respondents concurred that most people in their society flouted the recommended PMs. The reasons for poor/non-compliance with PMs were: perceived poor susceptibility to illness, perceived less severity of COVID-19 and low perceived benefits of complying with the PMs. Respondents opined that COVID-19 is less prevalent in rural areas and among the educated population. Most respondents were aware of the recommended PMs and opined that these must be followed, however subjective norms, social norms and behavioral intentions negatively impacted compliance. CONCLUSIONS Since there was poor community perception of susceptibility to COVID-19 as well as poor perceived severity, the community did not understand the benefits of adhering to the recommended PMs. Therefore, future health communication strategies must take these into account to increase the possibility of success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuhina Rastogi
- Department of Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Shally Awasthi
- Department of Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Ranjan Khare
- Department of Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Mahesh Prasad
- Department of Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Gulshan Sami
- Department of Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Verma
- Department of Pediatrics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, 226003, India
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Ghio D, Lawes-Wickwar S, Tang MY, Epton T, Howlett N, Jenkinson E, Stanescu S, Westbrook J, Kassianos AP, Watson D, Sutherland L, Stanulewicz N, Guest E, Scanlan D, Carr N, Chater A, Hotham S, Thorneloe R, Armitage CJ, Arden M, Hart J, Byrne-Davis L, Keyworth C. What influences people's responses to public health messages for managing risks and preventing infectious diseases? A rapid systematic review of the evidence and recommendations. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e048750. [PMID: 34764167 PMCID: PMC8587350 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-048750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individual behaviour changes, such as hand hygiene and physical distancing, are required on a population scale to reduce transmission of infectious diseases such as COVID-19. However, little is known about effective methods of communicating risk reducing information, and how populations might respond. OBJECTIVE To synthesise evidence relating to what (1) characterises effective public health messages for managing risk and preventing infectious disease and (2) influences people's responses to messages. DESIGN A rapid systematic review was conducted. Protocol is published on Prospero CRD42020188704. DATA SOURCES Electronic databases were searched: Ovid Medline, Ovid PsycINFO and Healthevidence.org, and grey literature (PsyarXiv, OSF Preprints) up to May 2020. STUDY SELECTION All study designs that (1) evaluated public health messaging interventions targeted at adults and (2) concerned a communicable disease spread via primary route of transmission of respiratory and/or touch were included. Outcomes included preventative behaviours, perceptions/awareness and intentions. Non-English language papers were excluded. SYNTHESIS Due to high heterogeneity studies were synthesised narratively focusing on determinants of intentions in the absence of measured adherence/preventative behaviours. Themes were developed independently by two researchers and discussed within team to reach consensus. Recommendations were translated from narrative synthesis to provide evidence-based methods in providing effective messaging. RESULTS Sixty-eight eligible papers were identified. Characteristics of effective messaging include delivery by credible sources, community engagement, increasing awareness/knowledge, mapping to stage of epidemic/pandemic. To influence intent effectively, public health messages need to be acceptable, increase understanding/perceptions of health threat and perceived susceptibility. DISCUSSION There are four key recommendations: (1) engage communities in development of messaging, (2) address uncertainty immediately and with transparency, (3) focus on unifying messages from sources and (4) frame messages aimed at increasing understanding, social responsibility and personal control. Embedding principles of behavioural science into public health messaging is an important step towards more effective health-risk communication during epidemics/pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ghio
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Society, University of Salford, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sadie Lawes-Wickwar
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mei Yee Tang
- Behavioural Science Policy Research Unit, Population Health Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Tracy Epton
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Neil Howlett
- Department of Psychology, Sports, and Geography, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Elizabeth Jenkinson
- Department of Health and Social Sciences, University of West England, Bristol, UK
| | - Sabina Stanescu
- School of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Angelos P Kassianos
- Department of Applied Health Research, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daniella Watson
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Lisa Sutherland
- Behavioural Insight for Public Affairs, Ipsos Mori, Edinburgh & London, UK
| | - Natalia Stanulewicz
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, School of Applied Social Sciences, De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Ella Guest
- Centre for Appearance Research,Faculty of Health and Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - Daniel Scanlan
- Department of Communication, Policy, and Research, Education Support, London, UK
| | - Natalie Carr
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Faculty of Health, Psychology, and Social Care, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Angel Chater
- Centre for Health, Wellbeing and Behaviour Change, University of Bedfordshire, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Sarah Hotham
- Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Rachael Thorneloe
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Applied Psychology, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Christopher J Armitage
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; and NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Madelynne Arden
- Centre for Behavioural Science and Applied Psychology, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Jo Hart
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lucie Byrne-Davis
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher Keyworth
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
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Aguiar LR, Frias PGD, Quinino LRDM, Miranda-Filho DDB. [Evaluation of implementation of the response to the public health emergency of microcephaly in Pernambuco State, Brazil]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2021; 37:e00271020. [PMID: 34495097 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00271020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the degree of implementation of the response to the emergency of microcephaly associated with Zika virus in Pernambuco State, Brazil. This was a normative evaluative study conducted in the initial epicenter of the public health emergency of international concern, from October 2015 to July 2017. A logical model was produced for the intervention under analysis, with the components of Management, Surveillance, and Care in the dimensions of structure, process, and result, based on technical publications and institutional guidelines, in addition to a corresponding log frame of indicators for assessment. Data were collected through a questionnaire, direct observation, and consultation of official documents. The results showed partial implementation (74.9%) of the response to the microcephaly emergency by the Pernambuco State Health Department, with the process dimension reaching 75% of the expected level and the structure dimension, 74.5%. Surveillance was the only component that was assessed as implemented (81%), although with a shortage of regional and laboratory investments, while Management (74.2%) and Care (68.8%) were partially implemented, with insufficiencies in items related to human resources and physical structure, planning, and evaluation. In conclusion, the response to the public health emergency of international concern involving microcephaly associated with the Zika virus was assessed as partially implemented, with different levels between the intervention´s components, especially surveillance when compared to management and care. The shortcomings signal the need for investments to deal with future public health emergencies, with a view towards more timely and adequate interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucilene Rafael Aguiar
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Pernambuco, Recife, Brasil
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Scholz J, Wetzker W, Licht A, Heintzmann R, Scherag A, Weis S, Pletz M, Betsch C, Bauer M, Dickmann P. The role of risk communication in public health interventions. An analysis of risk communication for a community quarantine in Germany to curb the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256113. [PMID: 34388211 PMCID: PMC8362954 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Separating ill or possibly infectious people from their healthy community is one of the core principles of non-pharmaceutical interventions. However, there is scarce evidence on how to successfully implement quarantine orders. We investigated a community quarantine for an entire village in Germany (Neustadt am Rennsteig, March 2020) with the aim of better understanding the successful implementation of quarantine measures. METHODS This cross-sectional survey was conducted in Neustadt am Rennsteig six weeks after the end of a 14-day mandatory community quarantine. The sample size consisted of 562 adults (64% of the community), and the response rate was 295 adults, or 52% (33% of the community). FINDINGS National television was reported as the most important channel of information. Contact with local authorities was very limited, and partners or spouses played a more important role in sharing information. Generally, the self-reported information level was judged to be good (211/289 [73.0%]). The majority of participants (212/289 [73.4%]) approved of the quarantine, and the reported compliance was 217/289 (75.1%). A self-reported higher level of concern as well as a higher level of information correlated positively with both a greater acceptance of quarantine and self-reported compliant behaviour. INTERPRETATION The community quarantine presented a rare opportunity to investigate a public health intervention for an entire community. In order to improve the implementation of public health interventions, public health risk communication activities should be intensified to increase both the information level (potentially leading to better compliance with community quarantine) and the communication level (to facilitate rapport and trust between public health authorities and their communities).
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliane Scholz
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Wibke Wetzker
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Annika Licht
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Rainer Heintzmann
- Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, Institute of Physical Chemistry and Abbe Center of Photonics, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - André Scherag
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Computer and Data Sciences, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Sebastian Weis
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Mathias Pletz
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Cornelia Betsch
- Media and Communication Science, University of Erfurt, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
| | - Petra Dickmann
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, Germany
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Mushi A, Yassin Y, Khan A, Yezli S, Almuzaini Y. Knowledge, Attitude, and Perceived Risks Towards COVID-19 Pandemic and the Impact of Risk Communication Messages on Healthcare Workers in Saudi Arabia. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:2811-2824. [PMID: 34262368 PMCID: PMC8274628 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s306402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate knowledge, attitude, and perceived risks towards COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Saudi Arabia. Besides, the impact of risk communication strategy on the attitude and practice of HCWs was investigated. Patients and Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study that targeted HCWs from various Saudi health facilities. We utilized a self-administrated, online-based questionnaire designed to assess basic knowledge of COVID-19, attitude and disease perception, and the impact of risk communication messages among HCWs. Results A total of 1691 responses were received in the study. The HCWs exhibited good levels of knowledge (total maximum score is 1) of COVID-19 concerning the modes of transportation of COVID-19 (0.82±0.16), sample collection method for COVID-19 diagnosis (0.98±0.08), transmission of infection from asymptomatic individuals (0.99±0.11), and that antibiotics are not effective against the new COVID-19 (0.83±0.38). Nearly one-third of the participants considered a high/very high possibility of acquiring COVID-19 infection. HCWs had good attitude scores concerning their willingness to deal with new COVID-19 patients (0.87±0.33) and their beliefs in being educated on COVID-19 (0.99±0.11). Almost all participants strongly agree/agree that it is important to take action to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within healthcare facilities and received health information messages. Notably, 93.4% of the participants stated that the received messages changed their attitude towards COVID-19 and its preventive measures. Good knowledge scores were significantly associated with age > 49 years old, higher educational level, and physician occupation. Similarly, good attitude scores were higher among males, HCWs aged 40–49 years old, non-Saudi nationals, and physician and nurse occupations. Conclusion HCWs have fair knowledge and attitude towards the COVID-19 pandemic. The risk communication is an effective strategy to improve the attitude and practice of HCWs towards COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz Mushi
- The Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yara Yassin
- The Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anas Khan
- The Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Emergency Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saber Yezli
- The Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasir Almuzaini
- The Global Centre for Mass Gatherings Medicine, Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Lim VW, Lim RL, Tan YR, Soh AS, Tan MX, Othman NB, Borame Dickens S, Thein TL, Lwin MO, Ong RTH, Leo YS, Lee VJ, Chen MI. Government trust, perceptions of COVID-19 and behaviour change: cohort surveys, Singapore. Bull World Health Organ 2020; 99:92-101. [PMID: 33551503 PMCID: PMC7856356 DOI: 10.2471/blt.20.269142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate how public perceptions and trust in government communications affected the adoption of protective behaviour in Singapore during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods We launched our community-based cohort to assess public perceptions of infectious disease outbreaks in mid-2019. After the first case of COVID-19 was reported in Singapore on 23 January, we launched a series of seven COVID-19 surveys to both existing and regularly enrolled new participants every 2 weeks. As well as sociodemographic properties of the participants, we recorded changing responses to judge awareness of the situation, trust in various information sources and perceived risk. We used multivariable logistic regression models to evaluate associations with perceptions of risk and self-reported adopted frequencies of protective behaviour. Findings Our cohort of 633 participants provided 2857 unique responses during the seven COVID-19 surveys. Most agreed or strongly agreed that information from official government sources (99.1%; 528/533) and Singapore-based news agencies (97.9%; 522/533) was trustworthy. Trust in government communication was significantly associated with higher perceived threat (odds ratio, OR: 2.2; 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.6–3.0), but inversely associated with perceived risk of infection (OR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4–0.8) or risk of death if infected (OR: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4–0.9). Trust in government communication was also associated with a greater likelihood of adopting protective behaviour. Conclusion Our findings show that trust is a vital commodity when managing an evolving outbreak. Our repeated surveys provided real-time feedback, allowing an improved understanding of the interplay between perceptions, trust and behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa W Lim
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Rachel L Lim
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Yi Roe Tan
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Alexius Se Soh
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Mei Xuan Tan
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Norhudah Bte Othman
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Sue Borame Dickens
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Tun-Linn Thein
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - May O Lwin
- Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rick Twee-Hee Ong
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yee-Sin Leo
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
| | - Vernon J Lee
- Communicable Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mark Ic Chen
- Infectious Disease Research and Training Office, National Centre for Infectious Diseases, 16 Jln Tan Tock Seng, Singapore 308442, Singapore
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