The Missing Message: Personalization and Internalization of Government H5N1 Communication

This study investigates how major U.S. health agencies, specifically the CDC and USDA, have communicated the risk of human-to-human transmission during the 2024–2025 H5N1 Avian Influenza A outbreak. Using a content analysis of CDC and USDA press releases, the research evaluates elements of personalization aligning with the internalization step of the IDEA Model. Findings reveal inconsistencies and a lack of urgency. The study underscores the critical role of clear, timely risk communication in managing zoonotic threats and offers insights for improving future public health messaging strategies.