Effect of social media on control of diseases in Kampala Uganda: A study of twitter/x

This study examined the use of social media in controlling diseases in Kampala Uganda. The objectives of this study were: to assess the role of Twitter/X in the dissemination of accurate health information during disease outbreaks in Kampala, Uganda, to examine the impact of misinformation spread via Twitter/X on public behavior and response during disease outbreaks in Kampala, Uganda, to analyze how social media, particularly Twitter/X, influences public trust in health authorities and adherence to disease control measures in Uganda and to explore the effectiveness of Twitter/X as a communication tool in raising awareness and promoting preventive measures during disease outbreaks in Kampala, Uganda. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research methods. A survey was conducted to collect quantitative data from social media users in Kampala, with a particular focus on those who actively engage with health-related content on Twitter/X. In addition to the survey, qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key informants such as public health officials, health communicators, social media managers, and influencers in Kampala. The findings revealed that Twitter/X is a crucial tool for disseminating information, especially during disease outbreaks although there were concerns that it is a site for misinformation. The study recommends the strengthening of monitoring of social media for potential misinformation, increasing engagement with social media audiences, partnering with influencers and media literacy campaigns among others.