Exploring Whether Wireless Emergency Alerts Can Help Impede the Spread of Covid-19

Abstract

This study offers a preliminary exploration of whether state-level (N=6) and local-level (N=53) Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) messages might contribute to impeding the spread of Covid-19 in the United States. The study compares changes in reported rates of infections and deaths between states and localities that issued WEA messages in March and April of 2020 with states that did not. Small sample sizes and differences in the rates of Covid-19 spread prohibit robust statistical analysis and detection of clear effect sizes, but estimated effects are generally in the right direction.

Modifying Text Messages from a Faith-Based Physical Activity Intervention with Latino Adults in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…The P&P text messages about COVID-19 are similar to the “personalized, repetitive” approach typical in health promotion text messages, rather than the “impersonal, bell ringer” approach commonly used in emergency communications. 30 (p. 34)…”

“…Text messages are used by public systems to communicate time-sensitive information about critical incidents like severe weather, 27,28 and more recently, COVID-19. 29 They have been used to help prevent COVID-19 misinformation 30 by disseminating links to reliable sources of information such as government websites. 31 Text message interventions have also been used to support mental health and provide a sense of social support during the COVID-19 pandemic.…”