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Exploring the use of web searches for risk communication during COVID-19 in Germany
[journal article]
Abstract Risk communication during pandemics is an element of utmost importance. Understanding the level of public attention - a prerequisite for effective communication - implicates expensive and time-consuming surveys. We hypothesise that the relative search volume from Google Trends could be used as an in... view more
Risk communication during pandemics is an element of utmost importance. Understanding the level of public attention - a prerequisite for effective communication - implicates expensive and time-consuming surveys. We hypothesise that the relative search volume from Google Trends could be used as an indicator of public attention of a disease and its prevention measures. The search terms 'RKI' (Robert Koch Institute, national public health authority in Germany), 'corona' and 'protective mask' in German language were shortlisted. Cross-correlations between these terms and the reported cases from 15 February to 27 April were conducted for each German federal state. The findings were contrasted against a timeline of official communications concerning COVID-19. The highest correlations of the term 'RKI' with reported COVID-19 cases were found between lags of - 2 and - 12 days, meaning web searches were already performed from 2 to 12 days before case numbers increased. A similar pattern was seen for the term 'corona'. Cross-correlations indicated that most searches on 'protective mask' were performed from 6 to 12 days after the peak of cases. The results for the term 'protective mask' indicate a degree of confusion in the population. This is supported by conflicting recommendations to wear face masks during the first wave. The relative search volumes could be a useful tool to provide timely and location-specific information on public attention for risk communication.... view less
Keywords
Federal Republic of Germany; epidemic; risk communication; search engine; digital media; trend; prophylaxis; illness; information-seeking behavior
Classification
Health Policy
Interactive, electronic Media
Free Keywords
COVID-19; Coronavirus; Google; GESIS Panel Special Survey on the Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 Outbreak in Germany (ZA5667 v1.1.0)
Document language
English
Publication Year
2021
Page/Pages
p. 1-10
Journal
Scientific Reports, 11 (2021)
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-85873-4
ISSN
2045-2322
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed