Authors: Yasir Almuzaini , Mariyyah Alburayh , Ahmed Alahmri , Fahad Alamri , Haytham Sheerah , Anas Khan

Abstract

Background: Risk communication during public health emergencies is a demanding and dynamic public policy process. In this paper, we provide an overview of risk communication during public health emergencies by discussing the theoretical foundations of risk perception. While communication is a complex art and a science that helps to facilitate daily life, it may also be misused, leading to a multitude of problems. Communication is essential in situations that involve threats to public health and safety. Methodology: An extensive literature review was performed, and various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, were consulted to identify relevant peer-reviewed articles. A two-stage analysis of the collected literature was then conducted: In the first stage, a comprehensive examination was carried out to identify and categorize the factors affecting risk communication, such as media effectiveness, public trust, and governmental policies. The second stage focused specifically on Saudi Arabia as a case study to analyze the unique cultural, social, and governmental factors that shape risk communication in public health emergencies within the country. Conclusion: Effective crisis management relies on open lines of communication; this is why risk communication is so important. Thus, it is essential to utilize the proper channels and sources and to ensure stakeholders' participation in the dissemination of information, since such information may contain sensitive details that might trigger widespread fears. Moreover, implementing a risk communication strategy that connects with and addresses people's concerns is essential for increasing public involvement in disaster planning and response, as well as for providing access to accurate and timely information about an impending crisis.

Keywords: Risk Communication, Risk Perception, COVID-19, Public Health, Public Health Emergencies, Disasters, Crisis