Coronavirus (Covid-19): Factual information vs Conspiracy theories

Who would have ever believed or thought we would be experiencing a pandemic in 2020? Most of us had watched disease outbreak movies such as World War Z, Contagion, Outbreak, Resident Evil, and hoped we never get to experience such in our lifetime. Well, here we are stock at home, wearing masks while out, no hugs or handshakes anymore.

Some countries have been in lockdown for months now and governments in various countries are now gradually easing the lockdown restrictions. While trying to stay sane during this trying period, i observed and noticed a flock of misinformation about the management and existence of Covid-19 on social media platforms especially on Whatsapp. And for some reason, people believe more in these conspiracy theories than the facts. I am yet to understand how anyone can believe myths such as 5G mobile networks spreads Covid-19. Just how? And whats worst? there are people out there who do not even believe there is a virus. Yes, some say it is a hoax.

Unfortunately, conspiracy theories surrounding Covid-19 seems to be spreading more than factual information. If ridiculous documentary's such as "Plandemic" could go viral, then we are in trouble. As a Public Health professional, it is extremely frustrating, exhausting and draining trying to debunk myths. Arguing with friends, and some family members constantly over what they received on whatsapp surrounding Covid-19, is annoying.

Either way, we can not give up now. And we seriously need to get our acts and facts together, or else, we will not defeat this pandemic. We need each other and can only win together. You can get credible Covid-19 information from World Health Organization (WHO), Center for Disease Control and Disease (CDC), your local and state health departments site. Remember to respect and follow the Covid-19 measures that is, proper hand hygiene, wear masks when out, keep your distance and stay home (if possible).