Assessment of Infodemic Response Capacity Among Health Educators in Primary Health Care Settings in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract Background The rapid spread of misinformation during public health emergencies poses significant challenges for primary health care (PHC) systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Health educators serve as frontline communicators in Nigeria’s PHC system, yet their preparedness to identify and respond to misinformation remains unclear. This study assessed the Infodemic Response Capacity (IRC) of health educators working in PHC settings in Lagos State, Nigeria, drawing on global evidence that infodemics undermine trust, reduce compliance with preventive measures, and complicate health communication efforts. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 90 health educators across three PHC administrative districts in Lagos State. Data was collected using a validated questionnaire instrument measuring five domains: knowledge, attitudes, skills, confidence, and decision-response. Descriptive statistics, tests, ANOVA, and multiple linear regression were used to identify factors associated with IRC. Results Participants demonstrated strong knowledge (M = 66.20) and positive attitudes (M = 61.45) toward managing misinformation, but substantially lower skills (M = 41.30), confidence (M = 47.25), and decision-response capacity (M = 36.40). The overall composite IRC score was moderate (M = 38.72). Previous training (β = 0.22, p = .039) and frequency of community engagement (β = 0.24, p = .023) significantly predicted higher IRC, while sex and years of experience were not significant predictors. Twenty percent of educators demonstrated low IRC, 54.4% moderate, and 25.6% high. Conclusions Health educators in Lagos State exhibit foundational awareness of infodemic-related challenges but possess limited practical competencies needed for effectively addressing misinformation in community settings. Strengthened capacity-building programs, particularly those emphasizing scenario-based training and frequent community engagement, are essential for improving frontline readiness. These findings provide evidence to guide PHC workforce development, inform national RCCE strategies, and support resilience against future infodemics in Nigeria.