WHO addresses disinformation and its impact on public health

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a comprehensive question-and-answer document addressing the detrimental impact of disinformation and misinformation on public health. The content distinguishes between misinformation, the spread of false information without intent to deceive, and disinformation, which is deliberately created and disseminated with knowledge of its falsity to deceive and cause harm. Motivations for disinformation can range from economic gain to ideological or political agendas.

The organization highlights how information manipulation can significantly affect public health outcomes. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a confluence of global fear, uncertainty, and widespread digital information sharing created fertile ground for disinformation. This led to widespread doubt about treatments, vaccine efficacy and safety, and the usefulness of public health measures, contributing to social unrest and, in some instances, increased mortality.

Historically, health-related disinformation is not a new phenomenon, with examples tracing back to the 14th century and continuing through more recent outbreaks like Ebola and mpox. Modern motives for spreading disinformation are complex, evolving from historical efforts to blame marginalized groups to contemporary geopolitical tensions where one actor may seek to undermine another's public health interventions. It is also employed to sow confusion, deepen political divisions, erode trust in scientific and civil institutions, or for personal financial gain.

WHO and its partners are developing strategies to counter health-related disinformation. Key approaches include raising public awareness, promoting critical thinking and digital literacy, and supporting trusted sources of information. Enhancing fact-checking activities and fostering collaboration with various stakeholders, including social media providers and law enforcement, are crucial to combatting this evolving threat.