Indigenous perspectives on health information literacy during COVID-19: the Chakma community experience

Purpose This study investigates the digital dimensions of health information literacy (HIL) among the Chakma, Bangladesh's largest Indigenous ethnic group, during the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to characterize community competencies in information seeking, appraisal and use; map preferred information channels and verification practices and identify barriers and priorities for skills development and institutional engagement. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative, cross-sectional correlational survey was administered to a purposive sample of adult Chakma residents across Rangamati, Khagrachori and Bandarban. The questionnaire combined adapted, validated scales with a systematic localization procedure (translation/back translation, expert review and pilot testing); content validity and common method bias checks were performed. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics to examine relationships among digital engagement, source use, appraisal skills and HIL outcomes. Findings Respondents demonstrated strong awareness of health information needs and effective interpersonal communication with peers and local clinicians, and relied principally on broadcast media and familiar social networks for COVID 19 information. Notable gaps were observed in systematic source locating, retrieval and critical appraisal, limited use of libraries and formal telehealth channels and barriers related to technical terminology, online search skills and trust in authoritative sources. Community priorities emphasized internet and information education skill development and enhanced governmental and NGO awareness initiatives. Practical implications Findings call for dual track interventions that address infrastructure and language appropriate resource supply while delivering culturally tailored capacity building. Libraries, local clinics and community leaders are positioned as trusted intermediaries for targeted information literacy programs and anti-disinformation strategies. Originality/value By centering an Indigenous community often absent from pandemic information literacy research, this study elucidates how digital opportunities and constraints intersect with cultural practices and institutional landscapes. Findings inform culturally responsive HIL interventions, library and health system outreach and disinformation mitigation strategies tailored to Indigenous contexts.