Public Perceptions of Information Sources Concerning Bioterrorism Before and After Anthrax Attacks: An Analysis of National Survey Data

This study examined data from six national surveys before and after the bioterrorist anthrax attacks in the fall of 2001. Public perceptions of information sources regarding bioterrorism were examined. The findings highlighted the importance of local television and radio and of cable and network new...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of health communication Vol. 8; no. sup1; pp. 93 - 103
Main Author: POLLARD, WILLIAM E.
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: Informa UK Ltd 01-06-2003
Online Access:Get full text
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:This study examined data from six national surveys before and after the bioterrorist anthrax attacks in the fall of 2001. Public perceptions of information sources regarding bioterrorism were examined. The findings highlighted the importance of local television and radio and of cable and network news channels as information sources. The findings also showed the importance of national and local health officials as spokespersons in the event of bioterrorist incidents. Periodic surveys of public attitudes provide important, timely information for understanding audiences in communication planning.
ISSN:1081-0730
1087-0415
DOI:10.1080/713851974