infodemic

The World Health Organisation has coined this word (info the shortened form of information + (pan)demic) to draw attention to the way in which hysterical rumours about COVID-19 are flooding the internet.  The fake news comprises conspiracy theories about how and why the virus appeared, and incorrect medical information that the WHO would very much like to stamp out with the help of the social media platforms. There are unscrupulous people who are trying to sell ‘a cure’ for coronavirus.  But even those who are not trying to make money but just passing on what they heard can do damage.  It’s good to see that once again that old favourite Vitamin C is touted as a cure, but I am less enthusiastic about the idea that drinking bleach will kill the virus. It will probably kill the patient as well.