Work

Mismatched online public concern and tick-borne disease risk in China

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Ticks and tick-borne diseases are increasing public health concerns in China. This study examines public awareness and concern using data from the People Cloud, a national public opinion data platform. Methods: We analyzed 358,862 posts related to ticks, tick bites, Lyme disease, and tick-borne encephalitis from October 2022 to November 2023. Temporal trends and geographic distribution were assessed to identify patterns of public interest. Results: Public concern peaked in April, coinciding with tick season, with "ticks" being the most mentioned term, particularly on social media platforms, such as WeChat. High search activity was concentrated in southeastern and northern provinces, especially Zhejiang, Guangdong, and Jiangsu. Lyme disease posts were more dispersed, while tick-borne encephalitis posts clustered in southern areas. Conclusion: Public interest in ticks follows seasonal and regional trends, reflecting tick activity but not always matching disease risk or tick distribution. Monitoring public opinion data can guide targeted health interventions and improve disease prevention efforts.

Source: Science in One Health

DOI: 10.1016/j.soh.2024.100101

Authors: Yuxin Li, Tengfei Hu, Tingting Wang, Sen Li

Institutions: Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan Huaxia University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Vector-borne infectious diseases

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,800