Today, it’s difficult to discern reliable medical guidance. Much of the “information” available online is inaccurate or oversimplified to the point of meaninglessness. The internet is saturated with questionable advice on weight loss and various health topics. When it comes to health, these dubious pieces of content can be dangerous.
Most people encounter false health information online and are unsure of its integrity. While some may be harmless, others, including outright lies, are often disseminated by malicious actors seeking financial gain or power by manipulating unsuspecting individuals. These bad actors exploit a flawed medical system that leaves people without access to trusted professionals who can provide accurate and beneficial information.
By promoting fear, misinformation induces mental and physical stress, directly impacting trust in government, government response, and public health messaging. This, in turn, disempowers individuals and jeopardizes their health.
What is an Infodemic?
An infodemic is the detrimental effect of an excessive amount of information, including false or partially true information, in digital and physical environments during a crisis. It generates confusion, fosters distrust in health authorities, and undermines public health efforts.
