The general objective of this proposal is to “expand on earlier studies completed by the PI and co-investigators on appropriate, culturally sensitive, strategies to disseminate accurate information on COVID-19 prevention and treatments…

We will pursue the overall objective through these specific aims:
(1) Develop a social network analysis model to estimate the degree of COVID-19 misinformation and disinformation consumed by the Hispanic community;
(2) Conduct focus group sessions with representative Hispanic community members; and
(3) Complete an economic impact analysis of proposed informational strategies for Hispanics.

Since hispanics rely more on social media to obtain information on Covid-19 than any other ethnic group, it is imperative to expand research on mitigating the effect of misinformation and disinformation through these communication channels.

The study will take place in El Paso, Texas, and introduces several key innovations.