Research on the Influence of Information Diffusion on the Transmission of the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Lin Shanlang; Ma Chao; Lin Ruofei; Huang Junpei; Xu Ruohan; Yuan Aini

Excessive and inaccurate spread of epidemic information may also bring unexpected counter-effects, such as causing panic among the people, causing snatching of living materials, and curbing economic activities. Therefore, while information diffusion has played a role in the practice of epidemic prevention and control, it may be possible to take interventions to reduce the adverse effects. This article puts forward the following suggestions: (1) The government convenes a press conference in a timely manner to disclose the epidemic situation information and make the information transmission more transparent. The state-run media played a role of weathervane, they need to timely follow up the epidemic report to let public learn about the virus. (2) Do a good job of information management and control. Official authority, hospital and well-known experts need to timely deny a rumor for various purposes to avoid unhealthy social impact. (3) In view of the differences in urban and rural internet penetration rates, governments at all levels need to issue official documents timely to transfer information to rural areas.