Science communication as a preventative tool in the COVID19 pandemic

Abstract

Humans have witnessed epidemics and pandemics periodically throughout history. Often, such infectious outbreaks have resulted in entire civilisations struggling against possible extinction. Despite recent clinical advancements and technological developments, issues of neglected sustainability and lax health hygiene practices, among others, have provided a context for the emergence of the COVID19 pandemic. Against such a backdrop, scientific communication using diversified tools could play a significant role in efforts towards preparedness and control, as well as the initiation of immediate remedial measures in the fight against epidemics and pandemics. These tools could help to increase understanding of the scientific solutions to minimise the outbreaks of infectious diseases, thereby strengthening societal immunity. This paper considers the history of epidemics/pandemics to draw attention to their occurrence, effects and potential impacts on human societies. In addition, it defines the major factors underpinning the various infectious outbreaks over the last three decades. Constructive preparation and preventative stages for authorities, scientists and researchers to check and diminish the impact of epidemics and pandemics during and post-outbreak are suggested while focusing on the need for science communication in the healthcare system. The paper also reviews recent empirical studies and WHO guidelines. Communication through appropriate communicators may help cut through the noise, share facts and boost confidence in science and governance. The impact of science communication on the interplay between government–expert–public or society could help promote positive behavioural change as well as overcome linguistic barriers.

Determinants of COVID-19 vaccine preference: A survey study in Japan

“…As noted by Matta and Nov (2020) , better scientific communication between the public and authorities is effective as a better approach to containing the pandemic. Better communication could be achieved by either enhancing public knowledge or deepening the authorities’ understanding of the public’s fear.…”

Influence of Public Engagement with Science on Scientific Information Literacy During the COVID‑19 Pandemic

“…On the one hand, there are several salient disputes over scientific protective actions and development in the scientific community which influence public perspectives on COVID-19 policy (Hart et al, 2020 ), such as lockdowns, wearing facemasks, social distancing, and vaccinations. On the other hand, science communication has been a preventive tool in terms of the “infodemic” (Matta, 2020 ), which has helped reduce the rapid spread of questionable information. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines an “infodemic” as an “overabundance of information—some accurate and some not—occurring during an epidemic” (WHO, 2020 ).…”

Effective Communication at Different Phases of COVID-19 Prevention: Roles, Enablers and Barriers

“…An underlying element of this threat is our limited awareness and appreciation of the anthropogenic factors behind the emergence and persistence of pandemics, which reduces our ability to prevent and manage these risks to public health [7]. Consequently, strategies to mitigate these threats require better communication between different stakeholders, stewards and members of society [8,9]. Often, communication strategies in dealing with outbreaks have been treated as supplementary efforts, rather than being treated as a core component in pandemic preparedness and management.…”