2. Searching online social media sources to find disease surveillance data may result in discovery of useful information but it may also be unethical and possibly illegal. It is not unusual for individuals to use social media to express challenges they are facing when they themselves or loved ones are experiencing symptoms of illness. People may post information in hopes to learn how to treat symptoms without visiting a medical professional, or they may want to inform others of their illness. Author Hanrahan (2013) notes that while social media may be viewed publically, the systematic acquisition of personal health information by public health officials should consider law as well as ethical principles. Key considerations include violation of individual liberty, privacy, property, and autonomy. Public health authorities must also protect the population and therefore ensure health and safety of the greater
2. Searching online social media sources to find disease surveillance data may result in discovery of useful information but it may also be unethical and possibly illegal. It is not unusual for individuals to use social media to express challenges they are facing when they themselves or loved ones are experiencing symptoms of illness. People may post information in hopes to learn how to treat symptoms without visiting a medical professional, or they may want to inform others of their illness. Author Hanrahan (2013) notes that while social media may be viewed publically, the systematic acquisition of personal health information by public health officials should consider law as well as ethical principles. Key considerations include violation of individual liberty, privacy, property, and autonomy. Public health authorities must also protect the population and therefore ensure health and safety of the greater