COVID-19, a respiratory infection caused by a novel coronavirus, was first identified in December 2019 in Hubei Province, China, and rapidly spread around the globe. On February 4, 2020, the World Health Organization declared it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Thailand reported its first case on January 12, 2020, and classified COVID-19 as a dangerous communicable disease effective March 1, 2020, establishing a COVID-19 Situation Administration Center under then-Prime Minister General Prayuth Chan-o-cha.

The pandemic profoundly impacted global health, resulting in widespread illness and death while altering social behaviors and creating a "New Normal." The rapid dissemination of both accurate and misleading information led to public panic and risky health behaviors.

In response, the Ministry of Public Health launched the "Thai Roo Soo COVID" or “Thailand’s Know How to Fight with COVID-19” social media initiative on March 4, 2020, aimed at providing reliable information and fostering public trust. This effort included platforms such as Facebook, Line, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, amassing over 5.146 million followers and generating more than 7.878 million interactions daily.

The platform's success is attributed to its effective communication strategy, which emphasizes positive messaging and engages diverse age groups. It has improved access to health services and vaccinations, ultimately reducing illness and mortality rates while boosting public confidence in government actions. This study offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers to enhance risk communication and health awareness for future health crises.

Authors:
Pahurat Kongmuang Taisuwan, Ministry of Public Health, Thailand

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Pahurat Kongmuang Taisuwan, Director of the SORDPC, DDC-MOPH, Thailand. She is responsible for addressing diseases and hazards associated with students in rural and mountainous areas, as well as within prison health programs.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/pahurat-k-taisu-10a9b313

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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