Infodemics management in the digital world: The implications for Public Health in Sub-Saharan Africa
Vol. 67 No. 1 (2026), Infectious Diseases
Vol. 67 No. 1 (2026)

Infodemics management in the digital world: The implications for Public Health in Sub-Saharan Africa

Infectious Diseases
https://doi.org/10.82082/2421-4248/jpmh2026.67.1.3812
Published 2026-05-15
JOHNSON CHIJINDU Diara
Department of Public Health, David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
IFEOMA VIVIAN UGWUEKE
Department of Public Health, David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Patricia Iheaku Otuh
Department of Public Health, David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
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Keywords

infodemiology
Management
Public Health

Abstract

Contemporary society is characterised by borderless communication across education, commerce, and healthcare. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, social media became the primary source of news, interaction, and health information, accelerating the spread of unregulated content. Nigeria experienced these transformations amid a fragile health system confronted by two parallel threats: the pandemic and widespread infodemics. Past outbreaks, notably Ebola, demonstrated the harmful consequences of misinformation, including preventable morbidity and mortality driven by rumours. Low health literacy and weak health indicators increase Sub-Saharan Africa’s vulnerability to infodemics, deepening public mistrust in government and health institutions. Strengthening infodemiology and infodemic management is therefore essential to outbreak preparedness. Effective, evidence-based communication can address information gaps, counter fear and uncertainty, and promote informed health behaviours

https://doi.org/10.82082/2421-4248/jpmh2026.67.1.3812
pdf

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