Online News, Public Health and Misinformation: Their Impact on Foreign News Consumers Living in China

This article explores online news consumption patterns among foreign news consumers living in China, with a particular focus on the correlation between public health and misinformation. During a public health emergency, like the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for accurate and timely health information has become more urgent, especially as the increasing amount of misinformation on digital platforms (e.g. WeChat, Weibo, websites) has complicated the situation and continues to create cultural barriers for its audience. By examining how foreigners in China develop and live their news consumption habits, this study aims to investigate the impact of misinformation on their perceptions and actions regarding public health. The findings are expected to serve as references for organizations and policymakers with the purpose of improving communication strategies to better support foreign communities in China during public health crises.