Health Information Seeking Behaviors Related to COVID-19 Among Young People: An Online Survey

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 is a communicable disease that is preventable by accessing valid health information. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate health information seeking behaviors (HISB) related to COVID-19 in young people. Materials and Methods: A total of 258 young people participated in this online study through a convenience sampling method who filled out the HISBC-19 questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 19 software by the chi-square test with considering α = 0.05 as the significance level. Results: Out of 258 participants,105 (40.7%) had very good internet search skills, 77 (29.8%) were good, and 76 (29.5%) were poor. Besides, 194 (75.2%) people started searching for health information from search engines and virtual social media. The highest use of health information sources was related to virtual social media. Also, 243 (94.2%) people reported behavioral improvement after achieving health information. The chi-square test showed a significant difference between men and women in receiving information from visiting the physician or other treatment staff, asking questions from family members, watching satellite channels, and attending workshops and meetings on health (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The use of internet-based media is one of the most important sources of health information related to COVID-19. Planning to provide accurate health information through reliable sources plays an important role in improving health information in young people.