Omani citizens relied more on international sources of information to inform themselves during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 demanded efficient and effective supply of information to the public to help reduce the rate of transmission.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to analyse Omanis' information behaviour during the COVID-19 pandemic, to help national authorities to prepare for future health crises or pandemics.

METHODS

A self-administered online survey involving a structured open-ended questionnaire was conducted via the SurveyMonkey software. Snowball and convenience sampling methods were used to recruit potential participants from social media sites like Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Non-parametric testing (Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H tests) assisted in analysis of demographic factors. Descriptive statistical analysis identified trends in information needs and seeking behaviour.

RESULTS

Over 6000 responses were obtained. The results revealed that Oman nationals were seeking information on symptoms of COVID-19, global and national infection rates, preventive measures, treatment and vaccines. Primary sources of information were radio news, Oman TV, international TV, print media, healthcare professionals, international agencies and online news websites.

DISCUSSION: There was little trust of local information sources with many Omanis relying on international information sources such as the WHO and international TV networks.

CONCLUSION

Public health agencies need to prepare for timely, and reliable information provision during health crises.