Public Health Implications of Social Media Use During Natural Disasters, Environmental Disasters, and Other Environmental Concerns
Location
Room 2908
Session Format
Paper Presentation
Research Area Topic:
Public Health & Well Being - Epidemiologic Research
Abstract
Social media allows users to share information and communicate interpersonally during natural disasters, environmental disasters, and other environmental concerns. We conducted a scoping review of the literature using the Arksey and O'Malley framework to examine how social media is used during these environmental concerns, determine what the implications are for public health officials, and to identify research gaps. Thirty-four articles were retrieved for the review. From these articles, four main questions were answered: How can social media be used to disseminate information to others? How is social media used for data prediction and early warnings? How is social media used for environmental awareness and health promotion? Lastly, how can social media be used as an indicator of public participation in social media during environmental concerns? We found evidence supporting social media as a useful surveillance tool during natural disasters, environmental disasters, and other environmental concerns. Public health officials can use social media to gain insight into public opinions and perceptions. Social media allows public health workers and emergency responders to act more quickly and efficiently during crises. Further research is needed to improve the use of social media during natural disasters, environmental disasters, and other environmental concerns.
Presentation Type and Release Option
Presentation (Open Access)
Start Date
4-16-2016 1:30 PM
End Date
4-16-2016 2:30 PM
Recommended Citation
Duke, Carmen, "Public Health Implications of Social Media Use During Natural Disasters, Environmental Disasters, and Other Environmental Concerns" (2016). GS4 Georgia Southern Student Scholars Symposium. 168.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2016/2016/168
Public Health Implications of Social Media Use During Natural Disasters, Environmental Disasters, and Other Environmental Concerns
Room 2908
Social media allows users to share information and communicate interpersonally during natural disasters, environmental disasters, and other environmental concerns. We conducted a scoping review of the literature using the Arksey and O'Malley framework to examine how social media is used during these environmental concerns, determine what the implications are for public health officials, and to identify research gaps. Thirty-four articles were retrieved for the review. From these articles, four main questions were answered: How can social media be used to disseminate information to others? How is social media used for data prediction and early warnings? How is social media used for environmental awareness and health promotion? Lastly, how can social media be used as an indicator of public participation in social media during environmental concerns? We found evidence supporting social media as a useful surveillance tool during natural disasters, environmental disasters, and other environmental concerns. Public health officials can use social media to gain insight into public opinions and perceptions. Social media allows public health workers and emergency responders to act more quickly and efficiently during crises. Further research is needed to improve the use of social media during natural disasters, environmental disasters, and other environmental concerns.