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Theoretical perspectives on public communication preparedness for terrorist attacks.
Ricardo J Wray1, Matthew W Kreuter, Heather Jacobsen
1Health Communication Research Laboratory, School of Public Health, Saint Louis University, 3545 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA. wray@slu.edu
Family & Community Health
|December 15, 2004
Summary
Lessons from the 2001 anthrax attacks inform effective public health communication during emergencies. Applying communication theories helps assess preparedness strategies for better crisis response.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Communication Studies
- Emergency Preparedness
Background:
- The 2001 mailed anthrax attacks highlighted significant challenges in public information dissemination during health emergencies.
- Past experiences directly influence current crisis communication strategies and preparedness objectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply communication theories and evidence to public health preparedness.
- To provide a framework for systematically evaluating current preparedness communication recommendations.
Main Methods:
- Review of lessons learned from the 2001 anthrax attacks.
- Application of established communication theories and empirical evidence.
- Development of a theoretical orientation for assessing preparedness communication.
Main Results:
- Federal health authorities' response to the 2001 anthrax attacks offers critical insights into emergency information dissemination.
- Communication theories provide a structured approach to understanding and improving public health preparedness.
- A systematic framework can be used to evaluate existing preparedness communication guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Effective public health communication is crucial for successful emergency preparedness.
- Leveraging communication science enhances the evaluation and refinement of crisis communication strategies.
- Lessons from past events, like the anthrax attacks, are vital for future public health security.