Assessing the Impacts of Social Media in Educating Individuals on the Importance of Influenza Prevention
Abstract
Social media serves as a powerful tool for organizations to spread information to the public. This research, conducted in collaboration with Broward Regional Health Planning Council (BRHPC), a nonprofit organization that has an online presence on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn, investigates the benefits of using social media as a platform to educate and raise awareness regarding the importance of influenza vaccines among individuals and communities. In the realm of public health, individuals must understand the importance of influenza vaccinations, as a way to prevent the spread of the seasonal flu and minimize its impacts on different communities. A total of five flu-related posts were created and shared. Free posts were shared on BRHPC’s Instagram, LinkedIn, and X totaling 15 posts reaching 585 individuals. Boosting the same posts on Facebook, with $623.84 extended the reach to 15,759 individuals. As social media continues to grow as a primary source of information for many individuals, it is crucial to recognize its potential to spread accurate and essential information regarding vaccination. The research adopted a mixed-method approach, which combined quantitative analysis based on engagement metrics and media platforms, as well as qualitative insights through post engagements. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of social media platforms as educational tools, by evaluating reach, engagement, and perception of influenza-related content. These findings will allow for new strategies for the use of social media campaigns to not only promote influenza vaccination, but other essential information to enhance overall community health.
Faculty Sponsors
Dr. Claudia Serna
Project Type
Event
Location
Alvin Sherman Library
Start Date
4-3-2024 12:30 PM
End Date
4-4-2024 1:30 PM
Assessing the Impacts of Social Media in Educating Individuals on the Importance of Influenza Prevention
Alvin Sherman Library
Social media serves as a powerful tool for organizations to spread information to the public. This research, conducted in collaboration with Broward Regional Health Planning Council (BRHPC), a nonprofit organization that has an online presence on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn, investigates the benefits of using social media as a platform to educate and raise awareness regarding the importance of influenza vaccines among individuals and communities. In the realm of public health, individuals must understand the importance of influenza vaccinations, as a way to prevent the spread of the seasonal flu and minimize its impacts on different communities. A total of five flu-related posts were created and shared. Free posts were shared on BRHPC’s Instagram, LinkedIn, and X totaling 15 posts reaching 585 individuals. Boosting the same posts on Facebook, with $623.84 extended the reach to 15,759 individuals. As social media continues to grow as a primary source of information for many individuals, it is crucial to recognize its potential to spread accurate and essential information regarding vaccination. The research adopted a mixed-method approach, which combined quantitative analysis based on engagement metrics and media platforms, as well as qualitative insights through post engagements. This study aims to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of social media platforms as educational tools, by evaluating reach, engagement, and perception of influenza-related content. These findings will allow for new strategies for the use of social media campaigns to not only promote influenza vaccination, but other essential information to enhance overall community health.
