Overview
The COVID-19 "Infodemic"
Every time you open your phone, turn on the news channel on TV, or start talking to a friend, COVID-19 is going to pop up. This overabundance of information regarding COVID-19 is referred to as an "Infodemic". From scientists, to politicians, to social media users, everyone thinks they have new information about COVID-19. Everyone has something different to say about its level of dangerousness, what safety measures work or don't work, and how we can avoid serious illness. These conflicting voices make it difficult to differentiate between true and false information, which leads to life-threatening consequences.
The Impact of Fake News on CoVID Safety
By Alyssa Amidei
Previous Research
Effects of COVID-19 Misinformation
My Research
The purpose of my research was to identify the impacts of the COVID-19 "Infodemic" on my home of Starke County, Indiana. I used Facebook posts, a survey distributed on Facebook, and informal interviews to answer the question: how has fake news surrounding COVID-19 affected COVID safety? All survey respondents reported getting at least some COVID-related information from Facebook, so that could contribute to the attitudes and behaviors laid out below.
Safety Precautions
Over half of my survey respondents found it unnecessary to wear a mask everywhere, and 33% do not believe they work against COVID-19 at all. 44% of respondents will not be getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Relationship Stress
56% of respondents reported more stress in relationships due to opinions about COVID-19, and none reported less stress. One respondent has quit talking to someone due to differences in COVID-19 views.
Social Media Info
Only 44% of respondents always fact-check information before sharing it on social media. 61% of respondents believe social media is hurtful in regards to obtaining true information about COVID-19.
"I don't trust the news. They say one thing about COVID one day and then change their mind the next."
- Shanta
"IDK if I sound crazy but what if they chip us when they give us these vaccines? IDK this world is extra scared right now and I don't trust anyone at this point."
- Taylor
"Cloth masks are WORSE than none. It's equivalent to using a chain link fence to stop mosquitos. The CDC wants us to keep wearing masks. The masks don't work."
- Brock
Facebook Posts
Comments from community members
Implications
COVID-19 misinformation on Facebook leads to lack of trust in government agencies, increased stress in relationships, and community members ignoring safety guidelines.
When individuals don't wear their mask and social distance, excess deaths occur. One study also found that 800 deaths and thousands of hospitalizations resulted from a myth that ingesting highly-concentrated alcohol disinfects the body.
Next Steps
Social media platforms and social media users must share responsibility for the spread of misinformation. Facebook has implemented some "fact-checking" strategies, but may need to take further measures to prevent people from sharing this information. Individuals should do their own research about what they see on social media before sharing it.
Storytelling
Do not believe and share "miracle cures" or homemade remedies.
connect
Avoid inflammatory posts about particular groups of people. Instead, thank healthcare workers or share positive stories.