Infodemic experiences of post-earthquake victims: a descriptive qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Disaster Management
• Public Health Communication
• Psychology

Background:

• Infodemics, characterized by excessive accurate and inaccurate information, pose significant risks during disasters.
• The 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquakes in Turkey highlighted communication challenges and the rapid spread of misinformation, increasing confusion and anxiety among survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the infodemic experiences of earthquake survivors.
• To understand the impact of misinformation on psychological well-being and trust during a disaster.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive qualitative design was employed.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 earthquake survivors in Malatya.
• Thematic analysis using Colaizzi's method was applied to identify key themes.

Main Results:

• Five major themes emerged: difficulty accessing reliable news, misinformation and delays, sources of disinformation, psychological effects, and survivor recommendations.
• Participants reported exposure to conspiracy theories and contradictory reports, leading to emotional distress and eroded trust.
• The infodemic exacerbated the disaster's psychological toll.

Conclusions:

• Survivors stressed the need for centralized, accurate, and timely information dissemination.
• Nurses are vital in combating misinformation, enhancing health literacy, and supporting emotional recovery.
• Policymakers must prioritize communication infrastructure, regulate misinformation, and integrate health professionals into disaster communication plans.