Sorting Out Coronavirus Fact From Fiction
Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, people were fighting misinformation about health conditions, vaccines and treatments online. With the pandemic constantly evolving, it may be hard to keep up and understand what’s factual and what is fake—especially if your primary source for news is social media.
It’s important to be up to date on COVID-19 guidance to understand your local regulations. Misinformation continues to spread about topics like at-home treatments, how you get infected, and what’s safe or unsafe once you go out in public.
As the number of COVID-19 infections rises across the globe, it’s important now more than ever to understand the facts and correct guidelines for protecting yourself.
A Pew survey found that 23% of Americans reported sharing fake news at one point or another
Fighting the Infodemic
Public health officials say they are not only fighting a pandemic, but also an “infodemic.” Defined as an overabundance of information—both accurate and not— the infodemic makes it hard for people to find reliable guidance online or on social media.
Consider asking yourself the following questions to sort out coronavirus fact from fiction:
- Who’s saying it? Check out not just who sent you the article or graphic, but also the author and whether it’s posted by a well-known publication. When it comes to health care, peer-reviewed journals add another level of credibility to research.
- What proof do they have? Consider the information more credible if there are additional links or evidence in the article.
- When was this published? It’s easy to share outdated information, especially on social media. Check the date, as the pandemic continues to quickly evolve day by day.
- Where else is it being reported? Do a quick online search to see if trusted organizations (like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization or local public health officials) are also reporting it.
- Why are they saying it? Try to understand the study’s funding, which may impact its credibility. Certain organizations may have a motive or bias.
If you’re still aren’t sure, ask yourself whether you do believe the information. Trust your gut and rely on solid sources.
Accurate & Valuable Information
Since the beginning, I and SouthGroup Insurance Services have been putting out information to help our clients manage their risk. Here are some recent articles in case you missed them.
Coronavirus Recording and Reporting Under OSHA Rules
Return to Work Plans Following the COVID-19 Pandemic
Designing a Post-Coronavirus Office
Preparing for a Second Wave of COVID
If you have any questions or would like to discuss how 2020’s events could impact your risk and insurance program, then please reach out! I’d be happy to have a conversation with you.