Print Media Response to SARS in New Zealand

Abstract

To examine the media response to severe acute respiratory syndrome, we reviewed New Zealand’s major newspaper (261 articles for 3 months). While important accurate health messages were frequently included, some were missed (e.g., handwashing in only 2% of articles). No incorrect information was identified, and health spokespersons were accurately reported.

Keywords

• SARS virus
• newspapers
• health promotion
• risk
• risk reduction behaviour
• communication