Background: The internet has experienced an increase of healthcare websites and there has been a rise in searchers for healthcare information. Norovirus is a very contagious virus which requires patients to stay at home and not visit their G.P. This raises the question of whether the information on websites is reliable for those who are unable to see a G.P. Many studies have assessed website quality for a variety of medical conditions. Yet, to date, no study has assessed the information quality and readability of norovirus websites. Aims: The study aimed to locate the most commonly searched for norovirus websites on the World Wide Web and evaluate the information quality and readability of these websites. Methods: 40 websites were selected by using various search engines. The term ‘Norovirus Infection’ was searched. These websites were then assessed by using two generic evaluation tools (HON and Discern), readability tests (Flesch Reading Ease and Flesch –Kincaid Grade Level), and a specific Norovirus Tool based on the perceived needs of patients suffering from norovirus. These tools were subject to evaluation themselves in regards to their feasibility, reliability, and validity. Results: The results of this study differed to others as it was found the information quality of websites on norovirus was of a good standard. Only five websites achieved less then 50% with Discern, two with the HON tool, and two with the Norovirus tool. Yet, in common with other studies this study found that the readability of the websites was poor. No website achieved a score of 70 or higher with the reading ease, and no website scored 7 or lower with the reading grade. This study found the HON code tool took the longest time to use suggesting it may be less feasible, although the difference to other tools was minimal, but still statistically significant. The tools did not appear to correlate well which suggests they may measure different quality features of a website. The use of different tools may therefore be recommended. Conclusion: The World Wide Web is a good resource for healthcare information on norovirus. Yet, in regards to readability the reading tests revealed the reading levels are too high for the generic public and attempts should be made to lower the reading levels. Finally, due to the changing nature of the internet website evaluations may not be up to date soon after they are published. Further research is recommended with multiple website evaluations, a larger sample of websites, and conducted by medical professionals.
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)