A mental models approach to assessing public understanding of Zika Virus, Guatemala

Mental models are cognitive representations of phenomena that can constrain efforts to reduce infectious disease. In a study of Zika virus awareness in Guatemala, many participants referred to experiences with other mosquitoborne diseases during discussions of Zika virus. These results highlight the importance of past experiences for Zika virus understanding.

Southwell, B. G., Ray, S. E., Vazquez, N. N., Ligorria, T., & Kelly, B. J. (2018). A mental models approach to assessing public understanding of Zika Virus, Guatemala. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 24(5), 938-939. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2405.171570