An integrated infoveillance approach using google trends and Talkwalker: Listening to web concerns about COVID-19 vaccines in Italy

Abstract

An infodemic is an information epidemic capable of compromising public health. This manuscript proposes an infoveillance method suitable for listening to web concerns on health to develop adequate infodemiological responses based on the World Health Organization indications. In particular, the case of COVID-19 vaccinations in Italy was investigated. Web interest and concern in COVID-19 vaccines over the past week (January 8–14, 2023) was investigated via the websites Google Trends and Talkwalker by searching for appropriate keywords. Thanks to the analysis of related queries and topics, it was possible to determine and examine the most debated topics relating to specific side effects. Emotional reactions regarding COVID-19 vaccines have been negative in varying percentages between 40 and 70 %, depending on the topic discussed. Feelings of alarm, derision, doubt, and anger were common (about 60 %). The concerns were mainly about the effectiveness against recent COVID-19 variants and alleged side effects such as sudden death, tumors, myocarditis, prion disease, and high ferritin. The most used media among those scrutinized was Twitter (over 90 % of interactions). The male audience participated more and showed more negativity than the female one. The age groups mainly involved were the under-45s. This research discussed the combined use of Google Trends and Talkwalker to conduct rapid infoveillance surveys. The results found showed that the web public has many doubts about COVID-19 vaccines, including the appearance of very rare or unproved side effects. Based on the WHO infodemic management strategy, it is essential that this or similar approaches are adopted by health and government authorities to listen to the community and calibrate appropriate infodemiological responses aimed at preserving public health.