Unravelling the Impact of Infectious Diseases on Urban Travel Behaviour and Preference in Shanghai: A Spatial-Temporal Analysis from Social Media Footprints

This study examines how infectious diseases influence urban travel behaviour and preferences in Shanghai by analysing social media check-in data from the periods before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study utilizes a range of techniques, such as spatial-temporal analyses, cluster pattern identification, and GIS visualization, concentrating on the correlation between check-in data, timestamps, and geographic coordinates. The results indicate notable changes in the frequency, timing, and characteristics of travel throughout different urban regions, highlighting alterations in public behaviour as a reaction to the challenges posed by the pandemic. The spatial analysis reveals a transition from concentrated clusters in cultural and commercial hubs to more scattered patterns in less populated areas, accompanied by a post-pandemic resurgence in mobility and an increasing interest in varied travel destinations and outdoor settings. The regression analysis underscores the impact of demographic and economic factors on check-in patterns, revealing notable spatial and temporal dynamics influenced by socioeconomic changes. This study offers fresh insights into urban planning and tourism strategies in the aftermath of the pandemic, highlighting the critical need for resilience and adaptability during crises, while promoting the use of digital tools to enhance urban sustainability and preparedness for future challenges.