2025/05/15 by Wasim Ahmed, M. Laeeq Khan, Aqdas Malik +4 · 1 voice
Social Sciences · Arts and Humanities · #Misinformation and Its Impacts #Media Influence and Health #Public Relations and Crisis Communication
paper · doi:10.1080/1369118x.2025.2504605
openalex publication_date 2025/05/15 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/12
This study explores the role of health influencers on X (formerly Twitter) in promoting N95 respirators, with a focus on the accuracy and completeness of the information shared. It evaluates the impact of X influencers on public perception and policy regarding N95 masks. Using a tripartite model integrating eWOM, health messaging, and opinion leadership, the research analyzed 251,740 tweets through social network analysis (SNA) and content analysis. A systematic random sample of 21,436 tweets reveals that influencers with +100k followers and verified accounts achieved higher engagement. While health influencers played a significant role in shaping public understanding, gaps in detailed guidance highlight the need for actionable and precise messaging. Positioned at the intersection of public policy and marketing, our study emphasizes influencer collaboration and standardized communication strategies to improve health information dissemination on digital media.