ASSESSING FACEBOOK AND WHATSAPP MESSAGES IN THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF PNEUMONIA IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA.
Abstract
The use of social media platforms, particularly Facebook and WhatsApp, as tools for health communication has gained significant traction globally. This study assessed the effectiveness of Facebook and WhatsApp messages in preventing and controlling pneumonia in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. Anchored on the Health Belief Model, the research employed a descriptive survey design, utilizing structured questionnaires to gather data from 400 respondents aged 18 years and above. The study investigated the reach, reliability, and impact of pneumonia-related messages disseminated via these platforms, residents’ perceptions of their effectiveness, and strategies for addressing misinformation about pneumonia on social media. Findings revealed that a majority of respondents frequently encountered pneumonia-related messages on Facebook and WhatsApp, with many acknowledging the platforms’ role in raising awareness and encouraging preventive actions such as vaccination and early treatment. However, trust in the information shared on these platforms varied, with some respondents citing concerns about misinformation. The study also identified gaps in the verification of health information, highlighting the need for improved content credibility and user education. Many respondents emphasized the importance of regulating misinformation and recommended strategies such as public awareness campaigns and increased involvement of health authorities to improve the quality of information shared.
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