Chinanews, August 13th. According to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), researchers said that between January and March 2020, at least 800 people worldwide have died due to false news related to the new crown virus. In addition, about 5,800 people were sent to hospital for treatment due to relevant false information on social media.
According to reports, this study was published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Among the deaths related to false news about the new coronavirus, many people died from drinking methanol or alcohol-based detergents. They mistakenly think that drinking such products can treat the new coronavirus.
Data map: On August 10, local time, Paris, France, officially implemented mandatory outdoor masks to curb the further spread of the new crown virus. Photo by China News Agency reporter Li Yang
Earlier, the World Health Organization stated that the "infodemic" related to the new coronavirus has spread as fast as the new coronavirus itself, plus conspiracy theories, rumors, and stigmatization, which have caused it all over the world. Casualties.
The report pointed out that the study authors stated that many victims follow recommendations similar to credible medical information to prevent infection with the new coronavirus. For example, eat a lot of garlic or vitamins, and some people even drink cow urine. The researchers said that these behaviors have "potentially serious effects" on human health.
The report pointed out that fighting the "information epidemic" is the responsibility of international agencies, governments and social media. Technology companies have come under fire for their slow response and unsatisfactory performance. In the UK, it may take years to legislate to regulate cyber injuries.
According to the BBC investigation, incorrect information about the virus can also lead to attacks, arson and death. On the other hand, as the vaccine is about to come out, anti-vaccine activists may use social media platforms to persuade the public not to get a vaccine. This is a further threat.
At present, despite the efforts of social media companies to remove or label vaccine-related misleading information, recent polls in the United States show that 28% of Americans believe that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates wants to use a vaccine to “implant microchips On the people".
The report pointed out that many doctors told the BBC’s anti-counterfeiting team that the achievements of effective vaccines may be completely obliterated by false information.