Improving communication strategies for vulnerable populations during health crises: Learnings from COVID-19 Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices in an informal settlement in Mumbai, India

The study conducted in Dharavi, Mumbai, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic revealed critical insights into the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of vulnerable populations in informal settlements. Despite high awareness of COVID-19 symptoms and preventive measures, there was a significant gap between awareness and actual behavioral changes. Contributing factors included economic constraints, limited healthcare access, and dense living conditions that made social distancing challenging.

Additionally, many respondents perceived a low risk of contracting the virus, which further led to a lack of adherence to recommended health practices like wearing masks and maintaining hygiene. The study also highlighted that while various information sources, including television and family, were utilized, trust in these sources varied, with community health workers and doctors being the most trusted. This underscores the necessity for tailored communication strategies that not only disseminate accurate information but also address the specific needs and fears of the community, particularly those related to economic concerns and mental health.

Moreover, the study emphasized the importance of community engagement and the implementation of tailored public health interventions to bridge the gap between awareness and behavioral change. It stressed the need for health messaging to encompass broader socio-economic issues, not just health-related information. The persistent fears related to unemployment and financial insecurity among respondents highlighted the importance of integrating health communication with livelihood support and food security initiatives. Future strategies should focus on a context-specific and multidimensional approach in health communication, combining accurate information dissemination with broader support measures to address the holistic needs of vulnerable populations. By learning from the experiences during the pandemic, stakeholders can develop more effective communication frameworks that foster awareness, promote healthy behaviors, and enhance resilience in the face of health emergencies.