The Pandemic and the Infodemic

We have come a long way in the field of science, beginning from our ancestors being
devoid with scientific knowledge, like doctors wearing beak masks in the 17 th century in the
belief that this would counteract “bad air” causing diseases, from Greeks believing that Gaia
could arise life from stone, up to this time where plethora of information are within reach.
The invention of the microscope and important studies developed by scientists discredited
these obsolete ideas. At this time, we might be equipped with available resources, but the
question is, are we using it for good cause?

The rise of social media as a news source and the growing distrust on facts offered
by the establishment are so prevalent. Last year, the city of Wuhan underwent an official
lockdown. Given the fact that the virus originated from China, and has ecological origin in
bat populations, people have been targeting Asians with derogatory languages, especially
on social media sites. Since then, misleading articles spread around the world like wildfire.

Poor public health information causes people to believe in unreliable sources. A lot
of vloggers post demonetized videos and articles that gets through viewers emotionally,
rather than logically. In some reports, some sellers created misleading information on how
their products can prevent or cure coronavirus. Politics also play a huge role on this matter.
We're seeing politics and science literally crashing, the influence of politics to people affects
their behavior towards this pandemic (e.g Donald Trump influenced the Republicans on not
wearing masks). Meanwhile, conspiracy theorists suggested that it is a bioweapon. These
theories went to the extent that it led to the damage of 77 5G towers in the UK, due to
protesters claiming that 5G caused the virus.

After hours of scrolling through my news feed, I’ve encountered numerous clickbait
thumbnails and articles from questionable sources. Since I know how to spot credible
sources from those that are not, I educate myself with information given by professionals. I
read reports of epidemiologist debunking COVID-19 myths, and up to know, I am open for
learning.

As an iskolar ng bayan, I’m responsible in helping eradicate these harmful

information in my neighborhood and in social media. In order to combat this infodemic, I
will persistently post articles and studies from legitimate source. Since some viewers prefer
reading from infographics rather than lengthy articles, I will create fun and informative
videos and illustrations on debunking COVID-19 myths, the importance of wearing masks,
washing hands properly, and the right way of social distancing. In my neighborhood, since a
lot of people come to our store, my family and I posted informational signs around our
house. I believe that in this way, they would engage themselves properly and logically. And
eventually, they would educate others too.

Now that we are surrounded with myriad of sources within reach. Let us put it in
good use. This pandemic has already killed millions of people around the world. How worse
could it be if the infodemic and misinformation cascade continue to develop? Along with the
safety measures, we can fight through this by educating ourselves and the others and by
trusting our scientists. Together, let us be informed, be aware, and be ready to fight COVID-
19.