Twitter Communication During an Outbreak of Hepatitis A in San Diego, 2016–2018

• DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2020.305900
• Publication Date: 2020-10-01T20:01:42Z
• Authors: Eyal Oren; Lourdes Martinez; R. Eliza Hensley; Purva Jain; Taufa Ahmed; Intan Purnajo; Atsushi Nara; Ming-Hsiang Tsou
• Keywords: Misinformation; Thematic Analysis

Objectives. To examine how and what information is communicated via social media during an infectious disease outbreak. Methods. In the context of 2016 through 2018 hepatitis A outbreak in San Diego County, California, we used a grounded theory–based thematic analysis that employed qualitative quantitative approaches to uncover themes sample public tweets (n = 744) from Twitter, primary platform by key stakeholders communicate Results. Tweets contained both general A–specific related outbreak, restatements policy comments critical government responses with potential shape risk perceptions, expressions concern regarding individuals experiencing homelessness their role spreading A. We also identified misinformation common channels content driving emerged our sample. Conclusions. Public health professionals may identify real-time perceptions concerns target fulfill informational needs those who seek direction reassurance times uncertainty.