Instagram takes measures to promote the Government’s coronavirus information
Instagram has shared the measures it is taking to prioritise education and information surrounding COVID-19 (coronavirus).
Each time the app is launched, a message appears at the top of the screen directing users to the Australian Government Department of Health website with the updated information on the virus.
The message will appear on every user’s screen
When someone searches #coronavirus, a similar message appears before displaying posts, directing users looking for COVID-19 information to the Government website.
Similarly, when the word coronavirus is searched, the accounts for the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF are programmed to appear first.
This message appears when #coronavirus is searched
Instagram has shared that #coronavirus has been the top hashtag in Australia over the past seven days. The top 10 has also seen #toiletpaper, #socialdistancing and #washyourhands trending.
Instagram has also partnered with the popular account @dudewithsign which features a man holding a cardboard sign on a street corner, broadcasting some home truths. The partnership with Instagram will see him sharing health tips from WHO and morale boosting messages.
Instagram account @dudewithsign will be sharing health advice from WHO
Instagram for Business will also be sharing advice for small businesses which rely on the platform on to help navigate the challenges they are facing from COVID-19.
The initiative has kicked off with a call out for small business to tell Instagram what insights would help equip them for what they are facing.
A new sticker has also been developed to help people share their appreciation for healthcare workers.
