Short Wave Puerto Ricans Are At Risk From The Coronavirus And A Lack Of Information
Apr 7, 2020
Mónica Feliú-Mójer, Ph.D., is a dedicated scientist with CienciaPR, advocating for effective science communication in Puerto Rico. In conversation, she highlights the critical vulnerability of Puerto Rico's aging population to COVID-19 due to insufficient health information in Spanish. They discuss the barriers faced in obtaining reliable information and the role of diverse media in educating the public. Feliú-Mójer also addresses the community’s mistrust of government communications and the importance of culturally relevant messaging in combating misinformation.
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Ciencia Puerto Rico's Efforts
- Ciencia Puerto Rico connects scientists with media platforms to provide expertise on COVID-19 and related issues.
- They focus on diverse media, including radio and newspapers, to reach wider audiences, especially those without internet access.
Mistrust Hampers Response
- Government mistrust in Puerto Rico complicates emergency response, especially after missteps following Hurricane Maria.
- People seek information from scientists and academics not associated with the government due to this mistrust.
Culturally Relevant Communication
- Consider cultural context when communicating health guidance.
- Explain why precautions like social distancing are crucial, even if they clash with cultural norms, emphasizing empathy and understanding.