Trustworthy Information: Linking Source Reliability to COVID-19 Knowledge and Health Behaviors

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted substantial variability in public health information environments, yet the relationship between information source, perceived credibility, and behavioral response remains incompletely understood. This study evaluated how information sources influence COVID-19-related knowledge and behaviors and whether targeted educational interventions modify these relationships. We conducted a prospective survey-based study (July–December 2021) among adults recruited from outpatient clinics in Michigan (N = 209). Participants completed pre- and post-intervention surveys assessing information sources, perceived reliability, knowledge, and behaviors, and were randomized to receive either a video or infographic. Social media was the most frequently reported source (n = 95) but had lower perceived reliability (mean 2.97/5), whereas healthcare workers (HCWs) were rated most reliable (mean 4.26/5) despite lower utilization (n = 60). Use of HCWs, print media, and websites was associated with higher baseline knowledge, while television and radio were associated with lower knowledge of vaccine side effects (p = 0.011 and p = 0.003). Educational interventions improved knowledge and attitudes, with differential effects across source groups, while infographic-based interventions were more effective among social media users (p = 0.034). Information sources and perceived credibility significantly shape health knowledge and behavior, highlighting the need for communication strategies that integrate trusted messengers, high-reach platforms, and health literacy to improve public health outcomes.