A1 Journal article (refereed)
Health literacy action framework for health emergencies and infodemics (2023)

Okan, O., Messer, M., Levin-Zamir, D., Dadaczynski, K., Paakkari, L., Schaeffer, D., & Sorensen, K. (2023). Health literacy action framework for health emergencies and infodemics. Information Services and Use, 43(2), 115-130. https://doi.org/10.3233/isu-230193

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Okan, Orkan; Messer, Melanie; Levin-Zamir, Diane; Dadaczynski, Kevin; Paakkari, Leena; Schaeffer, Doris; Sorensen, Kristine

Journal or series: Information Services and Use

ISSN: 0167-5265

eISSN: 1875-8789

Publication year: 2023

Publication date: 11/07/2023

Volume: 43

Issue number: 2

Pages range: 115-130

Publisher: IOS Press

Publication country: Netherlands

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3233/isu-230193

Publication open access: Openly available

Publication channel open access: Partially open access channel

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/89086

Additional information: Andrew Pleasant Special Tribute Issue

Abstract

This paper addresses the critical role of health literacy during the COVID-19 infodemic and provides recommendations for decision-makers regarding how health literacy can be advanced as an empowering resource to mitigate the harmful effects of future infodemics. Based on a comprehensive literature review, key areas concerning health literacy are identified that help provide a strategic response during an infodemic. A framework for systemic health literacy capacity and policy advice is presented to inform and guide decision-makers on managing an infodemic with health literacy strategies. The way forward includes emphasizing the rights to access information and a broader view of how health literacy can help build back better in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, the paper includes a call to action for decision-makers to integrate systemic health literacy responsiveness into public health emergency strategies to counter a future infodemic’s diffusion.

Keywords: COVID-19; health; health literacy; digital well-being

Free keywords: health literacy; digital health literacy; Covid-19; infodemic; public understanding and misunderstanding

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2023

JUFO rating: 1