Perspectives

Physicians’ Role in the COVID-19 Infodemic: A Reflection

Authors: Sydney B. Blankenship, BS, Mariko Nakano-Okuno, PhD, Rocksheng Zhong, MD, MHS

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been marked by abundant conflicting information, especially in social media.1–4 Widespread Internet access enabled rapid distribution of information while also opening the door to the dissemination of fear-provoking, inaccurate data that, when superimposed upon an election year and political unrest, led to tension and distrust.5,6 As those responsible for the health and well-being of people in the community, physicians have an ethical obligation to reflect upon the nature of the COVID-19 infodemic, how it has affected people’s health, and how to handle a similar situation in the future.
Posted in: Infectious Disease143

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