Initial behavioural and attitudinal responses to influenza A, H1N1 ('swine flu')

摘要

As the media interest in H1N1 Influenza A ('swine flu') ebbs and wanes, it is important to prepare ourselves for the societal-not just the medical-implications of this outbreak. While practitioners may, rightly, anticipate a desire for physical intervention (eg, face masks), psychologists also point to the societal 'out-grouping' that can follow an epidemic. Often, when populations face a seemingly uncontrollable threat, they draw on existing stereotypes to reassure themselves. Already there are reports of the negative treatment and stereotyping of Mexicans following the outbreak in that country.