Thesis (MSc) - Cyprus International University. Institute of Graduate Studies and Research Health Care Organizations Management Department

Includes bibliography (sheets 39-45)

ABSTRACT Within a particular geographical area, city, country or state, the emergence of an infectious disease might take place at any moment and without prior warning. Because these diseases may quickly spread and puts the lives of others in peril, prompt action is essential to put a halt to its progression. The practice of "infectious disease communication" is required in order to protect the general public from infectious diseases. The influence of social media on public health awareness, health behavioural change and public health protection amid infectious disease outbreak in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus was examined in this research. The primary data analysed in this research was obtained through online questionnaires and disseminated via Whatsapp. The questionnaire was divided into 5 sections (section 1: Demographic information, section 2: Social media platforms, section 3: Public health awareness, section 4: Health behavioural change and section 5: Public health protection). A total of 350 respondents were sampled. SPSS was used to run correlation and regression analysis. Findings showed that social media had a positive correlation with public health awareness, health behavioural change, and public health protection. Social media was also found to have an impact on public health awareness, health behavioural change, and public health protection. This research concluded that effective use of social media platforms can be a vital tool for public health awareness, healthy behaviour change and public health protection. Furthermore, the expanding significance of social media in the healthcare industry is evident from the conclusions of this analysis, and it can definitely not be understated. It was recommended that the use of social media responsibly should be a part of every health care professional and management's daily tasks. Finally, the findings of this research will benefit public health officials in North Cyprus that look to progressive and efficient ways of improving the safety and well-being of their citizens.