Four years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation continues to plague public discourse, with a shift in focus towards vaccine-related conspiracy theories. Even prior to the detection of the first case in the U.S., misinformation regarding the virus was rampant, fueled by fears and uncertainties.
False claims linking COVID-19 symptoms to 5G wireless technology, untested treatments, and even denial of the virus’s existence contributed to the spread of misinformation. The year 2020 saw ‘downplay and denial’ about the virus being named the ‘Lie of the Year’ by PolitiFact.
While extreme public health measures have largely eased, misinformation surrounding COVID-19 persists, now predominantly revolving around vaccines and associated conspiracy theories. PolitiFact has conducted over 2,000 fact checks specifically related to COVID vaccines.
Tara Kirk Sell, a senior scholar at the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, noted the evolving levels of trust regarding misinformation, highlighting the initial phase of denial and fake cures, followed by a shift towards vaccine-focused mis- and disinformation, often taking on a partisan nature.
As the world continues to grapple with the impact of COVID-19, it is crucial to remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation, particularly concerning public health measures and vaccination efforts.
