Abstract
<jats:p>The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the increasing threat of emerging infectious diseases (EID) and the power of a unified response from scientific institutions for generating public health solutions. Societal perceptions of scientific research directly impact the success and sustainability of public health initiatives. As potential for zoonotic EIDs remains, it is vital to consider societal perceptions of the scientific research enterprise. This study characterizes the online narratives regarding EID research involving animal models. These narratives are compared across news and social media, pre- and post-COVID-19, and for research involving bats versus non-bat animal models. A thematic analysis of news media reveals narratives of “not in my backyard” (NIMBY) and distrust of government and universities. A content analysis of social media posts and comments highlights public frustration due to uncertainty regarding EID research, primarily post-COVID-19. These perceptions reveal potential avenues for misinformation correction and better public education about EID and animal research.</jats:p>