Health information perception among different populations during the COVID-19 pandemic: a community-based online survey

Abstract This study aims to explore the relationship between the perception of health information in different populations during the epidemic period, and to provide empirical information for the improvement of public health policies. 4704 participants were selected from 8 provinces in eastern, central and western China. A questionnaire was designed including demographic information, household variables, and perceptions of resident health information. Propensity score matching and path analysis for data analysis were used. For both healthy and suspect groups, higher levels of education were associated with a higher likelihood of taking personal protective measures. Residents with higher levels of education were less likely to trust information shared by family members. In the study, the mechanism of influence of household and information on the perceived outcomes and behaviors of people with different health conditions was found. These findings may be of significance to improve disseminating information mechanism of public health emergencies and health policies.