SEEKING ACCURATE INFO DURING A PLAGUE

SEEKING ACCURATE INFO DURING A PLAGUE

- Dr Santushi Amarasuriya

We have seen people behave in various ways amidst the COVID-19 situation. On one extreme are those who think this is an over-reaction, generally considering the prevailing movement restrictions a nuisance to be subverted. On the other are those in high levels of distress getting ready for impending doom.

This is a situation that is constantly evolving. Undoubtedly, this creates a sense of uncertainty and confusion about what to do and not. Therefore, we need a suitable compass to guide our behaviours. For this we must turn to accurate information to guide us.

We are extremely fortunate to have a plethora of information sources at our fingertips, which enable us to be updated about what is going on across the globe in a matter of seconds. However, the downside of this sea of information is that some of it is uncontrolled we can be misguided. The WHO has commented that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a “massive infodemic”, where there has been an over-abundance of false information, and has even set up a 24/7 myth-busting hotline to monitor and respond to such misinformation.

https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novelcoronavirus-2019/advice-forpublic/myth-busters

We might sometimes fall prey to such false information traps because we want to make sense of this situation which is creating a sense of uncertainty and uncontrollability. We might want an explanation for what is going on, or to feel reassured that all will be okay and that we can do something to save ourselves, or simply want quick answers.