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The recent webinar, "HMPV: Differentiating Fact from Fiction," highlighted a critical need for a proactive approach to public health communication, particularly concerning the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV). Experts emphasized the dangers of reactive measures, waiting for public concern to arise from social media before disseminating accurate information. This reactive approach, according to epidemiologist Bernhard Schwartländer, a former WHO official, is ineffective in countering misinformation and anxieties already fueled by online narratives. He stressed the inadequacy of simply publishing scientific statements on government websites, arguing that this passive dissemination does not reach the public effectively. Instead, public health professionals must actively engage in outreach programs to educate the populace and preempt the spread of inaccurate information and fears.
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, chairperson of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation and former WHO chief scientist, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of fostering scientific literacy and awareness. The goal is to prevent the kind of widespread panic observed when news of HMPV initially surfaced. She correctly pointed out that HMPV is not a novel virus; humanity has co-existed with it for a considerable time, leading to the development of immunity in a significant portion of the population. Most children, she highlighted, are exposed to the virus during their formative years, and the resulting infection is typically mild, leading to upper respiratory illnesses rather than significant mortality or morbidity. This contextualization of HMPV within the broader landscape of common childhood respiratory infections is vital in mitigating unnecessary fear.
Schwartländer's observations regarding China's HMPV situation offer a valuable perspective. He noted that while China possesses a robust surveillance system, the current surge in respiratory infections is within expected parameters, even slightly lower than in previous years. The viral distribution also mirrors patterns observed in past outbreaks, with influenza predominating and other viruses trailing. This observation emphasizes that while viral outbreaks are a reality, responsible communication can help regulate public perception. The situation underscores the need for consistent, evidence-based communication strategies to avoid disproportionate reactions.
Beyond the immediate HMPV situation, Dr. Swaminathan stressed the broader context of ‘One Health,’ emphasizing the increasing risk of zoonotic diseases—viruses and pathogens jumping from animals to humans. She highlighted the interconnectedness of various species and the significance of understanding this interdependency in preparing for future viral outbreaks. The COVID-19 pandemic served as a stark reminder of this interconnectedness and the rapid spread of novel viruses. The future, she projected, will likely see both known and emerging viruses making the leap from animals to humans, resulting in outbreaks. Therefore, proactive preparedness, including the development of resilient healthcare systems, is not just prudent but essential for national governments to invest in. The discussion also extended to the need for consistent governmental messaging to avoid the confusion and fear that miscommunication creates.
The webinar, effectively moderated by Ramya Kannan, health editor of The Hindu, provided a platform for subscribers to engage in an exclusive question-and-answer session. This interactive element underscores the importance of two-way communication in public health. By actively engaging with the public's questions and concerns, public health professionals can directly address misinformation and build trust. This fosters a more informed and resilient public health landscape and reduces the spread of unfounded fears. A proactive and transparent approach is not just a best practice; it is a necessity in the age of rapid information dissemination, where social media can amplify both accurate and inaccurate information with equal speed. The successful response to public health crises depends heavily on timely, accurate, and accessible communication.
The success of the webinar highlights the power of collaboration between news outlets and medical experts. The Hindu's partnership with Naruvi Hospitals in promoting this webinar under the ‘Healthy India, Happy India’ initiative exemplifies the important role of media organizations in disseminating accurate and timely information. Such collaborations are essential for ensuring that the public receives reliable information from credible sources, preventing the spread of misinformation and promoting better health outcomes. The discussion serves as a model for future public health campaigns, emphasizing the need for clear, consistent communication and an active engagement with public concerns. The future of public health hinges on our collective ability to harness the power of communication to build trust, overcome misinformation, and protect communities from both known and emerging health threats.
Source: Public health professionals need to communicate proactively to avoid concerns: experts on HMPV