The role of RCCE-IM in the mpox response: A qualitative reflection process with experts and civil society in three...

Risk communication, Community Engagement and Infodemic Management (RCCE-IM) is a central pillar of emergency management. This study explored the experiences of experts and key stakeholders on RCCE-IM in the 2022-23 mpox response in their countries.

We used an exploratory qualitative research design and conducted semi-structured interviews with people actively involved in the mpox response in their country. Content analysis was used to analyze the interviews and identify themes, patterns, and underlying concepts.

A total of 19 participants from Poland, Serbia and Spain were included in the study. RCCE-IM activities were broad-based, involving civil society organizations (CSOs) and affected communities in the co-creation and co-delivery of health information and advice, and ensuring that non-discriminatory language was used. Attitudes towards affected lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, and intersex (LGBTQI+) communities played an important role in the response. Participants reported that stigma was present in all three countries and that it was often influenced by challenging social and political dynamics. These attitudes were often reinforced by the media. RCCE-IM activities were influenced by the ease or difficulty of obtaining financial support and the availability and accessibility of countermeasures, including vaccines. Participants identified groups that were vulnerable and difficult to reach and emphasized the intersectional character of vulnerabilities. CSOs played an important role in advocating for the protection of people in vulnerable situations and linking them to health services.

We have been able to demonstrate good practices and challenges of RCCE-IM in the mpox response in three selected European countries. A pre-existing network of CSOs and experts who belong to, serve and have an understanding of the affected communities form the basis of a successful public health emergency response.