THE ROLE OF MASS MEDIA IN CURBING THE SPREAD CORONA VIRUS PANDEMIC IN NIGERIA
Abstract
Abstract
This study examined the role of mass media in curbing the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria. During the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), mass media platforms—television, radio, newspapers, and social media—played a critical role in disseminating health information, promoting preventive behaviors, and countering misinformation. The study adopted a descriptive survey design to assess how media campaigns influenced public awareness, compliance with health guidelines, and behavioral change. Findings revealed that mass media significantly increased public knowledge of COVID-19 symptoms, preventive measures, and vaccination campaigns. However, challenges such as misinformation and limited access to digital media in rural areas reduced the overall effectiveness of communication efforts. The study concludes that mass media remains a powerful tool in public health crises and recommends strengthening media-government collaboration and combating misinformation through credible information channels.
Keywords: Mass media, COVID-19, public health communication, awareness, Nigeria.
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