May 6, 2020

Evidence from internet search data shows information-seeking responses to news of local COVID-19 cases

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Public Health Policy and Practice

• Bento et al. used internet search data from the US to examine information-seeking behaviors in responses to the public announcement of the first case of COVID-19 in a state. Across states, searches for information about COVID-19 increased immediately after the announcement, but the elevated level of attention was short-lived, even though it was followed by increasingly strong policy measures. Searches for information about community-level policies (e.g., quarantine, school closures, testing) or personal health strategies (e.g., masks, grocery delivery, over-the-counter medications) were not immediately triggered.  
• These results correspond to a relatively early period in the epidemic when more comprehensive policy responses were not yet part of the public discourse. Further analysis should track evolving patterns of responses to new public information reports. 

Bento et al. (May 4, 2020). Evidence from internet search data shows information-seeking responses to news of local COVID-19 cases. PNAS. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2005335117