Examining Tweet Content and Engagement of Canadian Public Health Agencies and Decision Makers During COVID-19: Mixed Methods Analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Effective communication during a health crisis can ease public concerns and promote the adoption of important risk-mitigating behaviors. Public health agencies and leaders have served as the primary communicators of information related to COVID-19, and a key part of their public outreach has taken place on social media platforms.

Objective

This study examined the content and engagement of COVID-19 tweets authored by Canadian public health agencies and decision makers. We propose ways for public health accounts to adjust their tweeting practices during public health crises to improve risk communication and maximize engagement.

Methods

We retrieved data from tweets by Canadian public health agencies and decision makers from January 1, 2020, to June 30, 2020.

SUBMITTER: Slavik CE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7954113 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature