Reducing “COVID-19 Misinformation” While Preserving Free Speech

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

3-2022

Journal Title

JAMA

ISSN

1538-3598

DOI

10.1001/jama.2022.4231

Abstract

Misinformation about risks, prevention, and treatment of COVID-19 has cost lives. Misinformation comes from many sources, with many motives for spreading and believing it. In caring capably and compassionately for patients, a substantial majority of health professionals and health care organizations have vigorously defended the standards of medical science and public health practice. However, a vocal minority and their sponsors or allies have exploited their medical credentials to the detriment of the public. They have understated known risks of severe illness, challenged the safety and effectiveness of vaccines without evidence, touted unproved and risky treatments, and amplified conspiracy theories about science and scientists. These activities have compounded the ethical stress and moral injury the health care workforce has experienced during repeated pandemic surges.

First Page

1443

Last Page

1444

Num Pages

2

Volume Number

327

Issue Number

15

Publisher

American Medical Association

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