Title of article :
Coverage of the 2019 Eastern equine encephalitis virus outbreak on news media
Author/Authors :
Basch ، Corey H. Department of Public Health - William Paterson University , Fera ، Joseph Department of Mathematics - Lehman College - City University of New York , Jaime ، Christie Department of Public Health - William Paterson University , Quininoes ، Nasia Department of Public Health - William Paterson University
Abstract :
Background: The media plays as an important role in delivering information about emergent issues, such as the Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) outbreak of 2019. As such, there has been an increase in news coverage of vectorborne disease coverage due to a rise in emerging or re-emerging arboviruses. Methods: The purpose of this study was to describe the content of news clips related to the recent (2019) EEEV outbreak in the United States. Results: Only 3 of the important topics identified were mentioned in a majority of the 110 videos analyzed. These topics were, mosquito mentioned as transmitter, prevention by repellent/ pesticide, and geography. Thus, many aspects of EEEV were lacking in coverage. Conclusion: A priority for public health professionals should be to engage in discourse with news media to assure that information disseminated via news channels is not vague or misleading.
Keywords :
Eastern equine encephalitis virus , Mass media , Disease outbreaks , Public health
Journal title :
Health Promotion Perspectives (HPP)
Journal title :
Health Promotion Perspectives (HPP)
