Data Isn't Enough: Relearning Risk Communication to Fight Future Outbreaks

An opinion piece arguing that outbreaks demand not just medical solutions but clear, contextual risk communication. As health agencies shrink and journalism declines, data dashboards can mislead without caveats, so rebuilding original reporting, enhancing scientist engagement with the public, and transparent messaging are essential to guide proportional actions during hantavirus, Ebola, measles, and future outbreaks.