Diffusion and use of information about Ebola salt water therapy by students in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria during 2014 Ebola epidemic in Nigeria

Abstract

This study is aimed at determining the diffusion and use of Ebola salt water therapy information by students in Ahmadu Bello  University (ABU) Zaria, Kaduna state, Nigeria. Using qualitative case study approach, the researcher adopted Electronic  Word-of-Mouth communication (eWOM) model as a guide. The researcher used 58 electronic narratives from Short Messaging Services (SMS), Twitter, and Facebook used in the diffusion of Ebola salt water therapy information by the ABU students during the 2014 Ebola epidemic and conducted one-on-one interviews with 19 participants that have discussed in social media, received the call, or massage on and practiced Ebola salt water therapy. The study found that the information about Ebola salt water therapy diffused among ABU students through electronic and  interpersonal means of communication by their close relations and opinion leaders, also the students used the information because of fear and the repeated number of calls and messages they received. The research recommended that the University Health Services Unit of ABU should have official online social platform for diffusion and discussion of health related matters where  professionals will respond and attend to students’ questions and complaints.