Infodemic Management in Senegal: Processes, Results and Community Contribution

This article examines Senegal's response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, with a particular focus on the management of infodemic, or the proliferation of rumours and misinformation. The advent of social media has precipitated a surge in the proliferation of rumours, rendering it a significant challenge for effective management. In response, the Risk Communication and Community Engagement Commission (RCCE) devised a comprehensive rumour management guide and conducted training for key informants from the community. The primary outcomes demonstrate an enhancement in rumour management and the accessibility of the rumour register. These outcomes were attained through robust community involvement in all processes and elevated mobile connectivity. Integrating the infodemic management mechanism into the national health and social information system remains a significant challenge, as does mobilizing resources for nationwide implementation. The principal insight gained is that effective infodemic management necessitates community involvement and coordinated multi-sectoral efforts.. (Abstract)