10.F. Workshop: Applying behavioral science for public health communication:insights from global COVID-19 initiatives

Abstract In the context of a highly contagious virus and global pandemic, key to slowing spread COVID-19 successfully transitioning through phases pandemic into ‘life after COVID', is public adherence unprecedented rapidly evolving behaviour-based government policies. From social distancing mask wearing greater vaccine uptake, successful implementation health interventions around world revolves effective community engagement communication initiatives that are essential for encouraging informed decision making, enabling positive behaviour change, maintaining trust among public. The current crisis has placed behavioural science at forefront multidisciplinary responses management on both local level. This workshop will build upon findings from research initiative (The International Assessment COVID-19-related Attitudes, Concerns, Responses Impacts in Relation Public Health Policies (iCARE) study), authors panellists provide insights how can be leveraged incorporate concepts sciences order improve preventive behaviours. structure include two presentations, followed by panel discussion. particular, highlight examples stress enormous potential policies reduced costs. They aim increase audience's understanding theories change complex systems influence human behaviour, including individual factors, close environment, social, influences. Moreover, they discuss feasible solutions strategic use interventions, application tailored approaches targeted messaging across variety settings promote adoption healthy behaviours reduce risk taking population Lastly, reflect some feasibility issues time-sensitive emergency scenario, such as need continuous assessment drivers monitoring impacts. Speakers/Panelists Elena Altieri Lead - Behavioural Insights WHO, Geneva, Switzerland Tanja Kuchenmuller Unit Head Evidence Policy Impact, WHO Evidence-informed Network, Simon L. Bacon Concordia University, MBMC, CIUSSS NIM, Montreal, Canada Kim Lavoie University Quebec CIUSSS-NIM, Key messages principles activities critical optimal publics’ Understanding motivators engaging mitigation, within well-defined had direct impact several approaches.