Strengthening community engagement in pandemic preparedness

Insights from Covid-19 response in Sidama Region, Ethiopia

Bibliographic Data

ID15380313
AuthorsAschalew Abayneh (0000-0002-0091-1731, Hawassa University, corresponding author), Sileshi Demelash Sasie (Hawassa University), Selamawit Mengesha (Maastricht University), Mark Spigt (0000-0002-6279-8068, Hawassa University)
Year2025
Volume26
Issue1
Pages413-413
Publication date2025-12-30
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueBMC Public Health (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1471-2458 • E-ISSN: 1471-2458
PublisherBioMed Central (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1186/s12889-025-25921-0
PMID41469621
OpenAlexW7117582567
LanguageEN
References cited22

While knowledge of COVID-19 was relatively high, attitudes were only moderate and preventive practices remained low. The finding that only 35% of the population actively participated in COVID-19 response efforts highlights a critical gap in community engagement during health crises. From an emergency management perspective, this calls for more effective strategies to translate awareness into proactive involvement. The Ministry of Health and WHO must focus on trust-building, communication, and empowering local leaders to mobilize communities. Tailored, community-driven models and culturally appropriate messaging are essential to ensure grassroots resilience and preparedness in future pandemics

Biostatistics · Community engagement · Emergency management · Focus group · Grassroots · Pandemic · Population · Preparedness · Public health · Disaster Management and Resilience · Global Health and Surgery · Viral Infections and Outbreaks Research