The Ethical Dilemmas in Reporting Public Health Emergencies in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State

The Ethical Dilemmas in Reporting Public Health Emergencies in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State

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Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study
The reporting of public health emergencies, such as disease outbreaks or natural disasters, requires journalists to navigate complex ethical dilemmas. In Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State, public health crises pose unique challenges for media practitioners, including balancing the need for timely information with the risk of causing panic, sensationalism, or stigma (Ibrahim & Yusuf, 2024). Ethical journalism in such contexts involves ensuring accuracy, maintaining confidentiality, and providing balanced coverage that informs and empowers the public (Ahmed, 2023). However, resource constraints, inadequate training, and external pressures often compromise journalistic integrity during health crises. This study explores the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in Gombe when reporting on public health emergencies, emphasizing the need for ethical frameworks and professional support to enhance the quality and impact of their reporting.

1.2 Statement of the Problem
Public health emergencies demand accurate and responsible reporting to inform the public and guide responses. However, in Gombe, journalists often grapple with ethical challenges such as verifying information under tight deadlines, respecting patient privacy, and avoiding sensationalism (Garba & Musa, 2024). These challenges are exacerbated by limited access to reliable data and pressure from authorities or stakeholders. The lack of clear ethical guidelines for reporting on health emergencies further complicates the situation, leading to potential harm to public trust and health outcomes. This study seeks to address this problem by examining the ethical dilemmas in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe and offering strategies for improvement.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To analyze the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe.

2. To evaluate the impact of these dilemmas on the quality of health reporting.

3. To propose strategies for enhancing ethical journalism during public health crises.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What ethical dilemmas do journalists face in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe?

2. How do these dilemmas affect the quality of health reporting?

3. What strategies can improve ethical standards in health journalism during emergencies?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

1. Journalists face significant ethical dilemmas in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe.

2. These dilemmas negatively impact the quality of health reporting.

3. Implementing ethical frameworks and training will improve public health reporting.

1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it addresses the critical role of ethical journalism in managing public health emergencies. By focusing on Gombe, the research provides valuable insights into the challenges journalists face and the implications for public awareness and response. The findings will benefit journalists, media organizations, and public health officials by offering recommendations for ethical and effective reporting during health crises.

1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study is limited to the ethical dilemmas in reporting public health emergencies in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State. It does not explore other aspects of health communication or extend to other regions.

1.8 Operational Definition of Terms

1. Public Health Emergency: Situations requiring immediate attention to prevent or mitigate significant health risks to a population.

2. Ethical Journalism: The practice of reporting that adheres to principles of fairness, accuracy, and social responsibility.

3. Sensationalism: The use of exaggerated or dramatic language to attract attention or provoke emotional responses.

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