‘MTSU On the Record’ views COVID-19 coverage through historic lens

An historic examination of media’s coverage of epidemics and pandemics was the topic of a recent “MTSU On the Record” radio program.

Dr. Katie Foss

Host Gina Logue’s interview with Dr. Katie Foss, a professor in the School of Journalism and Strategic Media, first aired March 24 on WMOT-FM Roots Radio 89.5 and www.wmot.org. You can hear their conversation above.

Foss’ new book, “Constructing the Outbreak: Epidemics in Media and Collective Memory,” will be out later this year from the University of Massachusetts Press.

It analyzes seven epidemics spanning more than 200 years and the various journalistic approaches to informing the public about them.

Foss said that when observing coverage of the current COVID-19 crisis, it’s important to differentiate between responsible news agencies and what individuals are posting on their social media.

“If we look at mainstream media’s coverage, it’s been diverse,” Foss said. “It’s been as thorough as it can be, offering a lot of perspectives as we gain more information and as the moments change.”

To hear previous “MTSU On the Record” programs, visit the searchable “Audio Clips” archives at www.mtsunews.com.