ABSTRACT Background: The infodemic is characterized by an influx of misinformation and disinformation regarding COVID-19, which is primarily spread in social media platforms such as Facebook. In order to combat the effects of the infodemic, eHealth literacy of users enables them to properly access, understand, and utilize online health information. Objective: This study aims to determine the level of eHealth literacy among Filipino Facebook users aged 18-24, and understand how they use Facebook to get health information during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: The study utilized a concurrent mixed methods approach through online surveys, KIIs, and FGDs. Results: Quantitative analysis revealed that Filipino Facebook users aged 18-24 have high eHealth literacy scores. Moreover, monthly household income and educational attainment were significantly related to eHealth literacy. For qualitative results, despite being aware of rampant health misinformation and disinformation, respondents believe that Facebook is an important tool to get health information primarily because it is free and accessible, and a lot of government agencies also disseminate information on Facebook. Conclusion: Social media platforms, such as Facebook, remain an important source of open-access health information for Filipinos especially when alternative sources are limited. However, it is important to increase eHealth literacy to avoid spread of health misinformation and disinformation spreading in these platforms.
Marion Abilene R. Navarro (2026) studied this question.