Public Health Communication in the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract This chapter focuses on COVID-19 and public health communications, including trust in public health communications and the “war” on the media. The authors write from a social determinants perspective, using Viswanath’s communication inequalities framework, which emphasizes disparities in people’s access to and consumption of media. Communication influences at the cultural, societal, and political levels and their impacts on COVID-19-related beliefs, knowledge, and behaviors are emphasized. Particular attention is focused on the role of social media (Facebook, Twitter) in disseminating alternative narratives about the pandemic. In addition, this chapter describes ongoing challenges in vaccinating the public due to vaccine hesitancy and anti-vaccine sentiment. The authors provide recommendations for health communicators on how to address communication inequalities and combat mis- and disinformation to successfully disseminate trustworthy, clear, and actionable information.