Buzz
A pandemic touches every corner of life. People crave comforting information and meaningful contributions. Everyone believes their viewpoint is important. However, many should remain silent to allow genuine experts to share their knowledge.
In just the last day, I’ve noticed friends sharing COVID-19 epidemiology insights from questionable sources: a military historian, a computer scientist, and a writer known for a non-scientific memoir. Let’s be clear: if you want accurate epidemiology information, consult an actual epidemiologist.
Here’s a key strategy to identify credible sources: Check their expertise prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. If they specialized in infectious diseases, treated respiratory conditions, or worked on public health initiatives, they’re likely trustworthy within their field.
However, this is rarely the case. Many individuals simply pick up a few tidbits of information and attempt to present themselves as authorities. For journalists and politicians, staying informed about global events is part of their role—but this doesn’t grant them expert status. They should rely on and reference credible sources.
It shouldn’t need to be said, but here’s a reminder: If you’re seeking accurate epidemiology insights, consult an actual epidemiologist.
Currently, the most widespread misinformation appears in opinion pieces that align with what people wish to believe. These articles often present weak arguments, relying on isolated data or sheer speculation, suggesting that reopening schools, workplaces, and resuming social gatherings is safe. While this sounds appealing, real experts are not endorsing such claims.
When you encounter content that aligns with your desires, scrutinize the source. If the author lacked expertise in pandemics before this one, disregard their opinion. If you find yourself swayed by such content, rigorously verify its accuracy.
