Short communication: Mpox memes, the gift that conceals a blade

Abstract

Memes have become a popular communication tool, especially during public health crises, offering both opportunities and challenges for messaging. This short communication examines the dual role of mpox-related memes circulating since the disease’s declaration as a public health emergency in August 2024. Through a qualitative content analysis of 200 mpox memes shared across major social media platforms, we identified two primary themes: (1) Awareness and Education and (2) Misinformation and Stigma. Approximately 60% of the memes promoted awareness, using humor to increase engagement with health messages and fostering constructive dialogue on preventive measures. However, 40% conveyed misinformation or perpetuated stigma, particularly against LGBTQ+ communities, which may have hindered public trust in health authorities and created barriers to health-seeking behaviors. The findings suggest that while memes can positively impact public health communication, their potential to spread misinformation requires strategic monitoring and response. Public health organizations may benefit from partnering with social media influencers to create accurate, relatable meme content that engages audiences without perpetuating harmful stereotypes.