COVID-19 Pandemic or Infodemic

The COVID-19 is a fierce reminder of just how much we need credible news sources and reporting. Especially in such conditions of crisis. Media has the power to define reality to say what is and what is not crucial at any given moment. Social media is both a blessing and a curse during the Corona Virus Pandemic. We are facing an unmatched crisis of public understanding. Social Media websites are at the heart of this crisis. Not only Social Media but also digital media acts as facilitators and multipliers of COVID-19 by spreading rumors and false news. Instead of COVID-19 Pandemic, it should be COVID-19 Infodemic.

 

Fake News

Many Facebook, Twitter, Instagram posts and YouTube videos are increasing public confusions and are only generating fear and panic due to unverified news and unauthentic claims. Rumors are the second form of misinformation. Untrue, exaggerated and dubious medical claims and hoaxes are other forms of misinformation. In regions of the world, various unproven natural health remedies were also preferred as cures of COVID-19 such as drink that contained mint leaves or Luke warm water. Such cures mostly spread through these social media platforms.

Social media viruses can be information viruses when we need facts the most. Fake news on Social Media Platforms can fuel public anxiety and behavior. At present, in such a crisis there is a need to help each other and stand with each other and make aware everyone with the right authentic news. Instead of spreading fake news to generate more likes or comments on your posts or videos or just to increase the TRP of your channel, spread awareness and try to keep public calm.

 

Positive Role of Media

On the other hand, digital as well as social media is also playing a very positive role in such a crisis. Doctors around the world are also joining Facebook groups to spread the right information and make people aware of the facts. A large number of lives already saved just by sharing crucial information about social distancing, proper hygiene, also they are helping with diagnosis and connecting physicians. The main purpose of such online groups is to bring a daily update on COVID-19.

 

Summarizing all, COVID-19 has badly impacted everything from the general public to the country’s economy and development. Millions of lives have been remarkably changed and global, multi-level and demanding stress coping adjustment process is still on-going. We all need to understand the severity of the condition at the moment. General Public needs to cooperate with the health care workers as well with the Government. Follow safety instructions, not for yourselves but also your loved ones.

Secondly, the media should play a positive role in such a crisis. Spread authentic news and avoid rumors. Media is something that has the greatest manipulation power in such a digital world we live in. The only need is to use every Social Media Platform in the right way and to think about every human being’s health. Every life is important. Our Healthcare workers, Army, Police everyone is working to protect people’s life, now it’s time for us to cooperate with them.