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Smith SE, Sivertsen N, Lines L, De Bellis A. Exploring social media influences on vaccine decision-making in parents: a netnography. Ther Adv Vaccines Immunother 2024; 12:25151355241249607. [PMID: 38726045 PMCID: PMC11080448 DOI: 10.1177/25151355241249607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Immunization is one of the most significant health initiatives of recent times. Despite this, vaccine hesitancy is increasing and was listed as one of the top 10 threats to global health by the World Health Organization in 2019. A major factor associated with vaccine hesitancy is thought to be the viral spread of misinformation by a small but active anti-vaccination movement. Objectives The purpose of this study was to explore the influences of social media on vaccine decision-making in parents. Design This study is part of a larger body of research that explored vaccine decision-making in parents. Other methods included were an online survey and semi-structured interviews. This study investigated the influence of cyberculture on parents in an online environment. Method This study employed netnography, a form of qualitative inquiry with its roots in ethnography as methodology and a purpose-designed Facebook page as the means of exploring a purpose-designed online community with a particular focus on the culture, belief systems and influences present. Both manual and computer-assisted thematic analyses were used to analyse the data obtained. Results Three key themes were identified in this study. These included vaccine safety concerns, the emotional debate and COVID-19-specific issues. The results indicated the presence of strong anti-vaccination sentiment combined with an 'infodemic' of conspiracy theories, misinformation and vitriol with the potential to negatively impact parents seeking immunization information. Conclusion Given the popularity and accessibility of social media and the ready access to misinformation present online, it is evident that parental vaccine decision-making may be impacted adversely. Therefore, it is important that healthcare professionals are aware of this and provide adequate and timely education prior to parents seeking information on social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E. Smith
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Flinders University, P.O. Box 573, Stirling, SA 5154, Australia
| | - Nina Sivertsen
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Rural and Remote Arctic Health, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Lauren Lines
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Anita De Bellis
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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2
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Oeser P, Grune J, Dedow J, Herrmann WJ. The 5 C model and Mpox vaccination behavior in Germany: a cross-sectional survey. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1039. [PMID: 38622587 PMCID: PMC11017625 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Due to the authorization of the Mpox vaccines, we aimed to identify determinants of the intention to get vaccinated, actively trying to receive vaccination, and for successfully receiving a vaccination in Germany employing the 5 C model of vaccination readiness. METHODS Data stem from a cross-sectional online survey that was available online from August 13, 2022 to August 31, 2022. To assess the influence of the 5 C Model on vaccination behavior, we conducted a multinomial logistic regression. RESULTS 3,338 participants responded to the survey, with 487 already vaccinated and 2,066 intending to receive a vaccination. Confidence and collective responsibility were positively associated with intention to get vaccinated, while complacency was negatively correlated. A higher score on the calculation scale increased the odds of intention to receive vaccination but not with actively having tried to receive a vaccination. Fewer perceived constraints were associated with higher odds to be vaccinated. Patients in practices that focus on HIV treatment were more likely to intend to get vaccinated, to have tried to get vaccinated and to be vaccinated, regardless of indication. While level of education had no impact, having an indication to get vaccinated was a strong predictor of vaccination behavior in all groups. CONCLUSION Future vaccination campaigns should aim to reduce specific constraints of the target group and make vaccines widely available in primary care institutions beyond HIV-focused practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Oeser
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Julianna Grune
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jendrik Dedow
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wolfram Joachim Herrmann
- Institute of General Practice and Family Medicine, Charité- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt- Universität zu Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
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3
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Teleş M. The effect of fear on health information searching behavior during the pandemic: The case of COVID-19. Int J Med Inform 2024; 184:105368. [PMID: 38335745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2024.105368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Fear can cause people to panic, lead to erroneous decisions, and trigger inappropriate behavior. This study aims to investigate the effects of fear of COVID-19 on the perception of the reliability and the use of health information sources. METHODS This study is both a cross-sectional and explanatory study. The participants selected by convenience sampling method were 323 students attending a state university in Turkey. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and the Health Information Sources Survey were used as data collection tools. Descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and linear regression analyses were used. RESULTS The participants' mean FCV-19S score was 2.30 ± 0.93 on a five-point Likert scale. In the range of 0-10, the information source with the highest reliability perception mean score was the doctor (8.05 ± 2.54), whereas that with the highest usage was the Internet (7.98 ± 2.77). Although the fear of COVID-19 had a negative effect on Internet use (b = -0.38; p < 0.05), the effects on the use of other health information sources were positive (b = 0.37-0.83; p < 0.05). Trust in radio (b = 0.60; p < 0.05) and newspapers/magazines (b = 0.49; p < 0.05) also increased with fear. CONCLUSIONS These results showed that as university students' fear of COVID-19 increased, the use of the Internet for health information decreased; however, the use of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, other health workers, scientific articles, television, radio, and newspapers/journals increased. Nurses were the source of information whose use increased the most, along with increased fear. The findings can guide health policies to be followed. Not only doctor talks but also nurse talks and scientific videos should be increased on the Internet, social media, and other mass media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mesut Teleş
- Niğde Ömer Halisdemir University, Zübeyde Hanım Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Health Management, Türkiye (Turkey).
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González-Salinas AI, Andrade EL, Abroms LC, Gómez K, Favetto C, Gómez VM, Collins KK. Latino Parents' Reactions to and Engagement With a Facebook Group-Based COVID-19 Vaccine Promotion Intervention: Mixed Methods Pilot Study. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e51331. [PMID: 38483457 PMCID: PMC10979334 DOI: 10.2196/51331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Misinformation in Spanish on social media platforms has contributed to COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Latino parents. Brigada Digital de Salud was established to disseminate credible, science-based information about COVID-19 in Spanish on social media. OBJECTIVE This study aims to assess participants' reactions to and engagement with Brigada Digital content that sought to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake among US Latino parents and their children. METHODS We conducted a 5-week intervention in a private, moderator-led Facebook (Meta Platforms, Inc) group with Spanish-speaking Latino parents of children aged ≤18 years (N=55). The intervention participants received 3 to 4 daily Brigada Digital posts and were encouraged to discuss the covered topics through comments and polls. To assess participants' exposure, reactions, and engagement, we used participants' responses to a web-based survey administered at 2 time points (baseline and after 5 weeks) and Facebook analytics to calculate the average number of participant views, reactions, and comments. Descriptive statistics were assessed for quantitative survey items, qualitative responses were thematically analyzed, and quotes were selected to illustrate the themes. RESULTS Overall, 101 posts were published. Most participants reported visiting the group 1 to 3 times (22/55, 40%) or 4 to 6 (18/55, 33%) times per week and viewing 1 to 2 (23/55, 42%) or 3 to 4 (16/55, 29%) posts per day. Facebook analytics validated this exposure, with 36 views per participant on average. The participants reacted positively to the intervention. Most participants found the content informative and trustworthy (49/55, 89%), easy to understand, and presented in an interesting manner. The participants thought that the moderators were well informed (51/55, 93%) and helpful (50/55, 91%) and praised them for being empathic and responsive. The participants viewed the group environment as welcoming and group members as friendly (45/55, 82%) and supportive (19/55, 35%). The 3 most useful topics for participants were the safety and efficacy of adult COVID-19 vaccines (29/55, 53%), understanding child risk levels (29/55, 53%), and the science behind COVID-19 (24/55, 44%). The preferred formats were educational posts that could be read (38/55, 69%) and videos, including expert (28/55, 51%) and instructional (26/55, 47%) interviews. Regarding engagement, most participants self-reported reacting to posts 1 to 2 (16/55, 29%) or 3 to 4 (15/55, 27%) times per week and commenting on posts 1 to 2 (16/55, 29%) or <1 (20/55, 36%) time per week. This engagement level was validated by analytics, with 10.6 reactions and 3 comments per participant, on average, during the 5 weeks. Participants recommended more opportunities for engagement, such as interacting with the moderators in real time. CONCLUSIONS With adequate intervention exposure and engagement and overall positive participant reactions, the findings highlight the promise of this digital approach for COVID-19 vaccine-related health promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kaitlyn Gómez
- California State University, Fullerton, CA, United States
| | - Carla Favetto
- George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
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5
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Paoletti G, Dall'Amico L, Kalimeri K, Lenti J, Mejova Y, Paolotti D, Starnini M, Tizzani M. Political context of the European vaccine debate on Twitter. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4397. [PMID: 38388713 PMCID: PMC10883931 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54863-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, fears grew that making vaccination a political (instead of public health) issue may impact the efficacy of this life-saving intervention, spurring the spread of vaccine-hesitant content. In this study, we examine whether there is a relationship between the political interest of social media users and their exposure to vaccine-hesitant content on Twitter. We focus on 17 European countries using a multilingual, longitudinal dataset of tweets spanning the period before COVID, up to the vaccine roll-out. We find that, in most countries, users' endorsement of vaccine-hesitant content is the highest in the early months of the pandemic, around the time of greatest scientific uncertainty. Further, users who follow politicians from right-wing parties, and those associated with authoritarian or anti-EU stances are more likely to endorse vaccine-hesitant content, whereas those following left-wing politicians, more pro-EU or liberal parties, are less likely. Somewhat surprisingly, politicians did not play an outsized role in the vaccine debates of their countries, receiving a similar number of retweets as other similarly popular users. This systematic, multi-country, longitudinal investigation of the connection of politics with vaccine hesitancy has important implications for public health policy and communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giordano Paoletti
- ISI Foundation, Turin, Italy
- Department of Control and Computer Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, 10129, Italy
| | | | | | - Jacopo Lenti
- CENTAI, Turin, Italy
- Department of Computer, Control, and Management Engineering Antonio Ruberti, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Michele Starnini
- CENTAI, Turin, Italy
- Departament de Física, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Campus Nord, Barcelona, 08034, Spain
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6
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Skafida V, Heins E. Trust in COVID-19 information sources and vaccination status: Exploring social inequalities and differences within the four United Kingdom nations using a representative survey. J Health Serv Res Policy 2024:13558196241227749. [PMID: 38314687 DOI: 10.1177/13558196241227749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore how the use of, and trust in, different sources of advice and information on COVID-19 differed across the four UK nations and between different sociodemographic groups and their associations with COVID-19 vaccination status. METHODS We used a UK-wide representative survey conducted in July 2021, which included data on uptake of COVID-19 vaccination, trust in information sources, use of sources and geographical and sociodemographic variables. We used multivariate logistic regression to identify factors associated with completed or planned COVID-19 vaccination. RESULTS Trust in the NHS, followed by trust in scientists, were the strongest predictors of vaccination intention. NHS websites were the most used (56% across the UK); only the Scottish government website had a higher level of reported use (58%). Using either source was associated with a positive vaccination status as were use of the GP and television as sources of advice. Use of social media, family and friends, and 'none' of the sources enquired about, were all linked to a lower likelihood of being or intending to get vaccinated. Compared to those in England, respondents in other UK nations were less likely to trust the central UK government for advice on COVID-19. There was considerable variation by age in trust and use of some, but not all, sources of advice, with predicted probabilities ranging from 35% among the youngest age group to 62% among those aged 65 years or older. There were also significant differences by annual household income and by occupational class for trust in government, with higher incomes correlating with greater likelihood of trust. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates high levels of trust in the key sources of public health advice and there was a positive association between using official sources of advice and vaccination intentions, even in the context of overall high vaccination rates. Our findings highlight the need for the UK and devolved governments to value the importance of public trust in the health system and take appropriate measures to avoid undermining such trust.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Skafida
- Social Policy, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Elke Heins
- Social Policy, School of Social and Political Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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7
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Levin J. The challenges of epidemiologic translation: communicating with physicians, policymakers, and the public. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1270586. [PMID: 38327582 PMCID: PMC10847263 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1270586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Translational epidemiology refers to the practical application of population-health research findings to efforts addressing health disparities and other public health issues. A principal focus of epidemiologic translation is on the communication of results to constituencies who can best make use of this information to effect positive health-related change. Indeed, it is contended that findings from epidemiologic research are of greatest use only if adequately communicated to health professionals, legislators and policymakers, and the public. This paper details the challenges faced by efforts to communicate findings to the these constituencies, especially three types of miscommunication that can derail efforts at translation. These include perceived misinformation, perceived disinformation, and perceived censorship. Epidemiologists are ethically obliged to avoid these types of miscommunication, and, accordingly, are advised to place greater emphasis on messaging and media outreach to physicians, government officials, medical educators, and the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Levin
- Institute for Studies of Religion and Medical Humanities Program, Baylor University, Waco, TX, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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8
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Cooper S, Gadanya MA, Kaawa-Mafigiri D, Katoto PDMC, Sambala EZ, Temfack E, Wiysonge CS. Using social media to build confidence in vaccines: lessons from community engagement and social science research in Africa. BMJ 2024; 384:e075564. [PMID: 38228329 PMCID: PMC10789190 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-075564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Cooper
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | | | - Patrick D M C Katoto
- Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Tropical Diseases and Global Health, Catholic University of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Centre for General Medicine and Global Health, University of Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Evanson Z Sambala
- Department of Community and Environmental Health, School of Global and Public Health, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Elvis Temfack
- Division of Public Health Institutes and Research, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, African Union Commission
| | - Charles S Wiysonge
- Cochrane South Africa, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
- HIV and other Infectious Diseases Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
- Vaccine Preventable Diseases Programme, World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Congo
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9
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Smith SE, Sivertsen N, Lines L, De Bellis A. Pushed to the Fringe - The Impact of Vaccine Hesitancy on Children and Families. Compr Child Adolesc Nurs 2023; 46:262-276. [PMID: 37318539 DOI: 10.1080/24694193.2023.2222815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy has been described as any delay or refusal of vaccines despite their availability and is increasing in Australia and other middle to high-income countries. The aim of this study is to gain a deep understanding of the experiences and influences on vaccine hesitant children and their families. A qualitative interview approach was undertaken with vaccine hesitant parents and pregnant women (n = 12). Semi-structured interviews were conducted by telephone. Inductive thematic analysis was undertaken on data obtained using the guidelines of Braun and Clarke. Three main themes were identified in this study, including Pushed to the fringe; A culture of Distrust; and Coerced choices. The study revealed that vaccine hesitant parents felt isolated and pushed to the fringe of society. They also expressed dissatisfaction with the Australian "No Jab - No Pay" and "No Jab - No Play" legislation. This contributed to feelings of marginalization. Participants also cited a breakdown in the therapeutic relationships, which impacted their child's health. Additionally, a lack of sufficient information was received to achieve informed consent. These results suggest that there is a need for enhanced education for some health-care professionals, many of whom have reported being confronted by conversations with vaccine hesitant parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan E Smith
- College of Nursing and Health Science, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Nina Sivertsen
- Rural and Remote Arctic Health, Campus Hammersfest, Flinders University and Arctic University of Norway, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Lauren Lines
- Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia
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10
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Gianfredi V, Stefanizzi P, Berti A, D’Amico M, De Lorenzo V, Lorenzo AD, Moscara L, Castaldi S. A Systematic Review of Population-Based Studies Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, Acceptance, and Hesitancy of Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women towards the COVID-19 Vaccine. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1289. [PMID: 37631857 PMCID: PMC10459271 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11081289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is recommended for pregnant women due to the high risk of complications. However, pregnancy has been associated with vaccine hesitancy. Our review aims at summarizing the existing literature about anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine hesitancy in pregnant and lactating women. The research was conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, ExcerptaMedica Database (EMBASE), and Scopus, according to PRISMA guidelines. Articles regarding the COVID-19 vaccine's acceptance and/or refusal by pregnant and lactating women were selected. Only observational, population-based studies were included. The Joanna Briggs Institute quality assessment tools were employed. A total of 496 articles were retrieved, and after the selection process, 21 papers were included in the current analysis. All the included studies were cross-sectional, mostly from Europe and North America. The sample sizes ranged between 72 and 25,111 subjects. All of them included pregnant subjects, except one that focused on breastfeeding women only. Vaccine hesitancy rates ranged from 26% to 57% among different studies. Fear of adverse events and lack of knowledge were shown to be the main drivers of hesitancy. Approximately half of the studies (11/21) were classified as low quality, the remaining (9/21) were classified as moderate, and only one study was classified as high quality. Primigravidae were also shown to be more likely to accept anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. Our findings confirm significant anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women. Information gaps should be addressed to contain concerns related to adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Gianfredi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (A.B.); (M.D.); (V.D.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Pasquale Stefanizzi
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70121 Bari, Italy; (A.D.L.); (L.M.)
| | - Alessandro Berti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (A.B.); (M.D.); (V.D.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Marilena D’Amico
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (A.B.); (M.D.); (V.D.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Viola De Lorenzo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (A.B.); (M.D.); (V.D.L.); (S.C.)
| | - Antonio Di Lorenzo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70121 Bari, Italy; (A.D.L.); (L.M.)
| | - Lorenza Moscara
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza G. Cesare 11, 70121 Bari, Italy; (A.D.L.); (L.M.)
| | - Silvana Castaldi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, Via Pascal, 36, 20133 Milan, Italy; (V.G.); (A.B.); (M.D.); (V.D.L.); (S.C.)
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Francesco Sforza, 35, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Joyce MC, Mountjoy NJ, Johnson JA, Newman JT, Bandy DL, Atalla NA, Singh A, McElroy D. From trial to practice: incidence and severity of COVID-19 vaccine side effects in a medically at-risk and vaccine-hesitant community. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:2351. [DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14824-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The rapid authorization and widespread rollout of COVID-19 vaccines in the United States demonstrated a need for additional data on vaccine side effects, both to provide insight into the range and severity of side effects that might be expected in medically-diverse populations as well as to inform decision-making and combat vaccine hesitancy going forward. Here we report the results of a survey of 4825 individuals from southcentral Kentucky who received two doses of either the Pfizer-BioNTech (BNT162b2) or Moderna (mRNA-1273) vaccine between December 14, 2020 and May 1, 2021. As new versions of the vaccine are rolled-out, local initiatives such as this may offer a means to combat vaccine hesitancy in reference to COVID-19, but are also important as we face new viral threats that will necessitate a rapid vaccine rollout, and to combat a growing public distrust of vaccines in general.
Methods
Individuals that received two doses of either BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 between December 14, 2020 and May 1, 2021 were sent a survey, created by the research team. Respondents were asked to rate the incidence and severity of 15 potential side effects and two related outcomes following each of their two doses of the vaccine. All statistical analyses were carried out using SYSTAT, version 13. The data were analyzed utilizing a range of statistical tests, including chi-square tests of association, Cohen’s h, Kruskal-Wallis test one-way nonparametric ANOVA, least-squares regression, and Wilcoxon signed-ranks test. Significance was assessed using Bonferroni-adjusted criteria within families of tests.
Results
In general, the pattern and severity in side effects was similar to both clinical trial data as well as other published studies. Responses to the mRNA-1273 vaccine were more severe than to BNT162b2, though all were generally in the mild to moderate category. Individuals who reported having previously tested positive for COVID-19 reported stronger responses following the first dose of either vaccine relative to COVID-naïve individuals. The reported severity to the COVID-19 vaccine was positively correlated with self-reported responses to other vaccines.
Conclusions
Our findings allow broad-scale estimates of the nature and severity of reactions one might expect following vaccination within a clinically-diverse community, and provide a context for addressing vaccine hesitancy in communities such as ours, where locally-generated data and communication may be more influential than national trends and statistics in convincing individuals to become vaccinated. Further, we argue this community-based approach could be important in the future in three key ways: 1) as new boosters and modified vaccines re-volatilize vaccine hesitancy, 2) as new vaccines receive similar testing and rapid authorization, and 3) to combat vaccine hesitancy in other arenas (e.g., annual vaccines, childhood vaccines).
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12
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Duradoni M, Gursesli MC, Materassi L, Serritella E, Guazzini A. The Long-COVID Experience Changed People's Vaccine Hesitancy but Not Their Vaccination Fear. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:14550. [PMID: 36361430 PMCID: PMC9654193 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Starting in early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has been responsible, worldwide, for millions of deaths and patients with long-COVID syndrome. In an attempt to stop the spread of the virus, the blanket administration of COVID-19 vaccines proved to be the most effective measure, yet the existence and availability of functional vaccines did not and, still, do not ensure the willingness and intent of people to be vaccinated. This study assessed the similarities and differences in vaccine fears and vaccine hesitancy through between clusters of subjects: people that were not infected with COVID-19, people that had COVID but did not develop long-lasting symptoms, and people that were infected with COVID and developed long-COVID syndrome. From the sample of 1111 Italian people, it was found that individuals who experienced mild symptoms showed higher vaccine hesitancy (confidence, complacency, and collective responsibility) than those who did not contract COVID-19. People affected by long-COVID showed a lower overall hesitancy than individuals who had COVID-19 without incurring long-lasting symptoms and, thus, essentially resembled people who had no experience of COVID-19 infection in terms of the vaccine hesitancy scores. Vaccine fear remained unchanged across all three of the examined clusters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirko Duradoni
- Department of Education, Literatures, Intercultural Studies, Languages and Psychology, University of Florence, 50135 Florence, Italy
| | - Mustafa Can Gursesli
- Department of Education, Literatures, Intercultural Studies, Languages and Psychology, University of Florence, 50135 Florence, Italy
- Department of Information Engineering, University of Florence, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Letizia Materassi
- Department of Social and Political Sciences, University of Florence, 50127 Florence, Italy
| | - Elena Serritella
- Department of Education, Literatures, Intercultural Studies, Languages and Psychology, University of Florence, 50135 Florence, Italy
| | - Andrea Guazzini
- Department of Education, Literatures, Intercultural Studies, Languages and Psychology, University of Florence, 50135 Florence, Italy
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Huang SH, Tsao SF, Chen H, Bin Noon G, Li L, Yang Y, Butt ZA. Topic Modelling and Sentiment Analysis of Tweets Related to Freedom Convoy 2022 in Canada. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1605241. [PMID: 36387289 PMCID: PMC9649435 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1605241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate public discourses and sentiments regarding the Freedom Convoy in Canada on Twitter. Methods: English tweets were retrieved from Twitter API from 15 January to 14 February 2022 when the Freedom Convoy occurred. Unsupervised topic modelling and sentiment analysis were applied to identify topics and sentiments for each topic. Results: Five topics resulted from the topic modelling, including convoy support, political arguments toward the current prime minister, lifting vaccine mandates, police activities, and convoy fundraising. Overall, sentiments for each topic began with more positive or negative sentiments but approached to neutral over time. Conclusion: The results show that sentiments towards the Freedom Convoy generally tended to be positive. Five topics were identified from the data collected, and these topics highly correlated with the events of the convoy. Our study also demonstrated that a mixed approach of unsupervised machine learning techniques and manual validation could generate timely evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hsio Huang
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Shu-Feng Tsao
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Helen Chen
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Gaya Bin Noon
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Lianghua Li
- Faculty of Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Yang Yang
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Zahid Ahmad Butt
- School of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Zahid Ahmad Butt,
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14
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Abstract
Purpose of Review In 2019, vaccine hesitancy (VH) was named as one of the top 10 threats to global health by the World Health Organization (WHO). We highlight the factors affecting VH, the role of VH in limiting vaccine uptake and inability to achieve collective immunity, and possible solutions. Recent Findings There are still uncertainties and concerns about the safety and efficacy of vaccines, which promote VH and undermine public confidence in immunization. WHO has designed the behavioral and social drivers (BeSD) tools and survey instruments that can be used by countries to assess reasons for poor vaccine uptake in childhood for COVID-19 and plan national vaccination programs to counter these misconceptions. Summary Vaccines are one of the best preventative measures that public health care has to offer. Evidence from across the world both in high-income countries (HICs) and low/middle-income countries (LMICs) show that VH is a significant phenomenon which is translating into geographical clustering of epidemics. A reasonably high acceptance and coverage rates are necessary for an immunization program to be successful. A context-specific and multifactorial intervention with more high-quality research is needed globally.
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15
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Gao H, Yin H, Peng L, Wang H. Effectiveness of Social Video Platforms in Promoting COVID-19 Vaccination Among Youth: A Content-Specific Analysis of COVID-19 Vaccination Topic Videos on Bilibili. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2022; 15:1621-1639. [PMID: 36071816 PMCID: PMC9444025 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s374420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With the widespread promotion of the COVID-19 vaccination in China, videos about the vaccination have become increasingly available on social video platforms. With the User Generated Content model, different creators’ interpretations of COVID-19 vaccines may influence the attitudes towards the vaccines and vaccination. Objective To explore the overview of COVID-19 vaccine-related videos on Bilibili, discussing the communication effects of COVID-19 topic videos and its influencing factors. Methods A content analysis was applied to the 202 video samples obtained through data mining regarding the creator’s information, video presentation, and COVID-19 vaccine-related content. Results Individuals and medical professionals preferred VLOG videos, media chose to upload informational videos, and enterprises preferred to post showcase videos. Individuals were more likely to discuss the adverse reactions in their videos, while medical professionals were more likely to discuss the vaccination process for the COVID-19 vaccine. Videos with core issues positively influenced the video’s dissemination breadth. The attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine in the videos positively influence the recognition of the videos. The richness of knowledge points related to the COVID-19 vaccine negatively affected the recognition and participation. Conclusion Social video platforms could play an active role in the vaccination promotion for the youth. Health promotion-related departments and individuals could strengthen agenda setting, grasp the characteristics of young groups, and express positive attitudes toward health issues to achieve better health (vaccine) promotion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Gao
- School of Journalism and Communication, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210097, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Yin
- School of Journalism and Communication, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210097, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Peng
- School of Journalism and Communication, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210097, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Wang
- School of Journalism and Communication, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Han Wang, School of Journalism and Communication, Jinan University, No. 601, West Huangpu Avenue, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510632, People’s Republic of China, Email
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Bruno F, Malvaso A, Chiesi F, Laganà V, Servidio R, Isella V, Ferrarese C, Gottardi F, Stella E, Agosta F, Filippi M, Lorenzo RD, Martin LR, Bruni AC, Maletta R. COVID-19 vaccine uptake among family caregivers of people with dementia: The role of attitudes toward vaccination, perceived social support and personality traits. Front Psychol 2022; 13:923316. [PMID: 35911007 PMCID: PMC9335157 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.923316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
People with dementia have an increased risk of contracting severe forms of COVID-19. Although in worldwide vaccination programs priority has been given to older people, having taken the vaccine does not totally eliminate the risk of contracting COVID-19 when one is in close contact with unvaccinated people. Thus, family caregivers’ choices to remain unvaccinated against COVID-19 could have potentially lethal consequences for their relatives. To our knowledge, this study represents the first attempt within the international literature to analyze COVID-19 vaccine uptake among family caregivers of people with dementia and to identify some of the psychological factors, related to COVID-19 and vaccination behavior, that could facilitate or hinder vaccine uptake. Contact information for family caregivers was obtained from five different centers and associations throughout the Italian territory. Data were collected from 179 respondents during July-September 2021 using a cross-sectional web-based survey design. More than 75% of the respondents indicated that had been vaccinated against COVID-19 and reported receiving vaccine information mainly from print or electronic newspapers (86%), followed by TV (81%) and families (64.2%). In multivariable logistic regression analyses, worries about unforeseen future effects was significantly related to COVID-19 vaccine uptake, indicating that family caregivers concerned about potential side effects of vaccines were less likely to have been vaccinated against COVID-19 (OR = 0.60, CI = 0.40-0.89). Openness to experience was also related to COVID-19 vaccine uptake, with family caregivers higher on this trait being less likely to have been vaccinated against COVID-19 (OR = 0.83, CI = 0.71-0.98). Implications for targeting of vaccine-related messages are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bruno
- Regional Neurogenetic Centre, Department of Primary Care, ASP Catanzaro, Lamezia Terme, Italy
- Association for Neurogenetic Research, Lamezia Terme, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesco Bruno,
| | - Antonio Malvaso
- Neurology Unit and Neurorehabilitation Unit and Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Chiesi
- Section of Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug, and Child’s Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Valentina Laganà
- Association for Neurogenetic Research, Lamezia Terme, Italy
- Valentina Laganà,
| | - Rocco Servidio
- Department of Cultures, Education and Society, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Valeria Isella
- Department of Medicine and Surgery and Milan Center for Neuroscience (NeuroMi), University of Milano – Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Carlo Ferrarese
- Department of Medicine and Surgery and Milan Center for Neuroscience (NeuroMi), University of Milano – Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | | | | | - Federica Agosta
- Neurology Unit and Neurorehabilitation Unit and Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Filippi
- Neurology Unit and Neurorehabilitation Unit and Neurophysiology Service, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Neuroimaging Research Unit, Division of Neuroscience, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
- Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Leslie R. Martin
- Department of Psychology, La Sierra University, Riverside, CA, United States
| | | | - Raffaele Maletta
- Regional Neurogenetic Centre, Department of Primary Care, ASP Catanzaro, Lamezia Terme, Italy
- Association for Neurogenetic Research, Lamezia Terme, Italy
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Pourkarim M, Nayebzadeh S, Alavian SM, Hataminasab SH. Digital Marketing: A Unique Multidisciplinary Approach towards the Elimination of Viral Hepatitis. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060626. [PMID: 35745480 PMCID: PMC9228079 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
New technologies are supported by the global implementation of the internet. These improvements have deeply affected various disciplines of sciences and consequently changed services such as daily business, particularly health sectors. Innovative digital marketing strategies utilize the channels of social media and retrieved user data to analyze and improve relevant services. These multidisciplinary innovations can assist specialists, physicians and researchers in diagnostic, prophylaxis and treatment issues in the health sector. Accordingly, compared to recent decades, health decision makers are more accurate and trustful in defining new strategies. Interestingly, using social media and mobile health apps in current pandemics of SARS-CoV-2 could be an important instance of the key role of these platforms at the local and global level of health policies. These digital technologies provide platforms to connect public health sectors and health politicians for communicating and spreading relevant information. Adding influencers and campaigns to this toolbox strengthens the implementation of public health programs. In 2016, the WHO adopted a global program to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030. Recent constructive measures that have been used in the battle against COVID-19 could be adopted for the elimination of viral hepatitis program. The presented evidence in our narrative review demonstrates that the application of digital marketing tools to create campaigns on social media, armed with professional influencers, can efficiently consolidate this program. The application of different strategies in using these popular tools will raise the public awareness about viral hepatitis. Subsequently, the availability of an effective vaccine for HBV and antiviral medication for HCV can motivate the audience to take steps towards prophylaxis and screening methods against these infectious illnesses. The encouragement of health policy makers to apply digital communication technologies and comprehensive roadmaps to implement this global program will certainly decrease the burden of viral hepatitis worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Pourkarim
- Department of Management, Yazd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yazd P.O. Box 89195/155, Iran; (M.P.); (S.H.H.)
| | - Shahnaz Nayebzadeh
- Department of Management, Yazd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yazd P.O. Box 89195/155, Iran; (M.P.); (S.H.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +98-351-8211391; Fax: +98-351-8214810
| | | | - Seyyed Hassan Hataminasab
- Department of Management, Yazd Branch, Islamic Azad University, Yazd P.O. Box 89195/155, Iran; (M.P.); (S.H.H.)
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Araujo da Silva AR, de Carvalho BRR, Esteves MDM, Teixeira CH, Souza CV. The Role of COVID-19 Vaccinal Status in Admitted Children during OMICRON Variant Circulation in Rio de Janeiro, City-Preliminary Report. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10040619. [PMID: 35455368 PMCID: PMC9025062 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10040619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate COVID-19 vaccination status in admitted children in 2020−2021 and during the OMICRON variant circulation (2022), a period when children older than 12 years of age had received two doses of COVID-19 vaccines. Design: An observational retrospective study. Patients with confirmed COVID-19 were compared in two different periods: 2020−2021 when adolescents aged 12−18 years had not received the complete COVID-19 vaccine, and 2022 when children older than 12 years had received the complete Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine scheme. Setting: Two pediatric hospitals in Rio de Janeiro city. Patients: Children aged < 18 years with confirmed COVID-19. Intervention: None. Main outcome: Vaccination status for COVID-19 on admission. Results: In total, 300 patients were admitted with confirmed COVID-19 (240 in 2020−2021 and 60 in 2022). The distribution of patients according to the age-groups was: 0−2 years (33.3% in 2020−2021 and 53.4% in 2022), 2−5 years (21.7% in 2020−2021 and 10% in 2022), 5−11 years (29.2% in 2020−2021 and 28.3% in 2022), and 12−18 years (15.8% in 2020−2021 and 8.3% in 2022) (p = 0.076). The median length of stay was six days in 2020−2021 and six days in 2022 (p = 0.423). We verified six deaths in the first analysis period and one death in the second one (p = 0.894). Of the 60 children admitted in 2022, 58 (96.7%) did not receive the complete COVID-19 vaccine scheme available. Conclusions: We verified in a “real-world condition” the ability of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to prevent hospitalization in children over 12 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Ricardo Araujo da Silva
- Materno-Infantil Department, Faculty of Medicine, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói 24033-900, Brazil; (B.R.R.d.C.); (M.d.M.E.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Monica del Monaco Esteves
- Materno-Infantil Department, Faculty of Medicine, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói 24033-900, Brazil; (B.R.R.d.C.); (M.d.M.E.)
| | | | - Cristina Vieira Souza
- Infection Control Committee, Prontobaby Group, Rio de Janeiro 20540-100, Brazil; (C.H.T.); (C.V.S.)
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19
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Corinti F, Pontillo D, Giansanti D. COVID-19 and the Infodemic: An Overview of the Role and Impact of Social Media, the Evolution of Medical Knowledge, and Emerging Problems. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10040732. [PMID: 35455910 PMCID: PMC9027783 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10040732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The infodemic is an important component of the cyber-risk in regard to the poor and uncontrolled dissemination of information related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to perform a narrative review based on three points of view to allow for an overall picture of this issue. The points of view focused on: (a) the volume of use of social media (a key element of the infodemic) and the position of international health domain bodies; (b) the evolution of scientific production in the life sciences; (c) emerging issues. The research methodology was based on Google and PubMed searches and a qualification process based on a standard checklist and an evaluation of eligibility based on parameters with five score levels applied by two experts (plus one in case of discrepancy). The three points of view stressed the key role of social media as a dissemination tool of the infodemic among citizens. The impact on citizens depends on various social factors and involves indirect (e.g., vaccine avoidance) and direct risks such as mental problems and the risk of suicide. The widespread diffusion of social media, conveyed by mobile technologies, also suggests their use as countermeasures, calibrated based on citizens’ level of both technological and health literacy. Effective and promising countermeasures in this direction are based both on initiatives of contact by apps or SMS and the collection of data based on surveys and finalized to the particular intervention. The review also suggests as further areas of in-depth research: (a) to combat high-level infodemic produced by scientific publications that are not yet official (preprint) or that have undergone peer review with bias/distortion; (b) focusing on the impact of the infodemic considering its spread in different languages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Corinti
- Facoltà di Medicina e Psicologia, Università Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniela Pontillo
- Facoltà di Medicina e Psicologia, Università Sapienza, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniele Giansanti
- Centro Tisp, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Roma, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-06-4990-2701
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