• The communication and language used by world leaders can influence the opinions and behavior of the public.

• World leaders can use their influence to address crises, especially by disseminating evidence-based information.

• It is essential however to consider the impact of misinformation and propaganda during times of crisis and conflict.

• Misinformation may also negatively impact views of the public on health matters.

• Twitter has had a significant role during other public health outbreaks including Middle East respiratory syndrome, SARS, Ebola virus disease, Zika virus, H1N1 (‘swine flu’) and H7N9 (‘avian flu’).