Tripepi Smith Business Analyst Valerie Nevarez shared her expertise during her session, “Biting Back at Misinformation: How to Build Trust with Data-Informed Communications,” at the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California’s 94th Annual MVCAC Conference and Exhibitor Showcase on February 3.
In her presentation, Valerie discussed the importance of combating misinformation through data-informed communications. She emphasized the need for a strategic communications plan to build trust and transparency with targeted audiences.
“Over half of the United States population gets its news and information from social media,” said Valerie. “If misinformation is being spread, we want people to look to us for guidance and truth.”
The presentation addressed key challenges facing the public health industry, including:
- The growing challenge of misinformation
- The trust gap between public health agencies and the public
- The importance of data-informed communications
- Building a communications strategy
She also shared a case study highlighting a viral myth, the role social media plays in amplifying misinformation and how reputable news outlets and agencies can combat false information.
The session concluded with an engaging discussion on social media, best practices for clear communication without technical jargon and additional audience questions. View Valerie’s presentation here.
About MVCAC
The mission of the Mosquito and Vector Control Association of California (MVCAC) is to provide quality public information, comprehensive mosquito and vector-borne disease surveillance, training to high professional standards, and effective legislative advocacy on behalf of California mosquito and vector control districts in an effort to protect the health of people living and visiting California.
About Tripepi Smith
Tripepi Smith is a California-based marketing, technology and public affairs firm that serves for-profit, nonprofit and public agencies. Its unique mix of marketing and technology prowess provides a competitive advantage to agencies seeking to leverage the internet to achieve their communication goals. The firm provides full content creation services, including: ghost writing, collateral development, photography, video production, aerial imagery, search engine optimization, email marketing campaigns and website design and execution. Tripepi Smith’s diverse clients include: City of American Canyon, City of Calabasas, City of Culver City, City of Cupertino, City of Daly City, City of Grover Beach, City of Indian Wells, City of La Cañada Flintridge, City of Lake Forest, City of Livermore, City of Malibu, City of Napa, City of Palmdale, City of Paramount, City of Tracy, CalChoice Energy Authority, California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, Santa Clara County Fire Department, Costa Mesa Sanitary District, Rowland Water District, California City Management Foundation, Renne Public Law Group, West Coast Arborists, Scripps College, Blind Children’s Center and Climatec.
