- A study from the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene found that almost 6,000 people were hospitalized because of false medical information published online between December 31, 2019 and April 5, 2020.
- At least 800 people have died as a result of misinformation spread online.
- People followed advice such as drinking cow urine, or drinking bleach.
- Others died as a result of violence stemming from misinformation.
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At least 800 people have died as a result of misinformation about the coronavirus in the first three months of 2020, the BBC reported.
Close to 6,000 people were hospitalized because of false information online, a new study from the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene found.
"Misinformation fueled by rumors, stigma, and conspiracy theories can have potentially serious implications on the individual and community if prioritized over evidence-based guidelines. Health agencies must track misinformation associated with the COVID-19 in real time, and engage local communities and government stakeholders to debunk misinformation," the study indicates.
The study reports that people were injured or died as a result of following advice that may have seemed credible, such as eating large amounts of garlic, or inedible matter — or taking certain vitamins to treat infections. Other misinformation suggests that people can self-diagnose COVID-19 by holding their breath for a certain period of time.
The BBC also reported that social media has also helped people sell or market false coronavirus remedies including supplements that are diluted bleach.
The study found that social media platforms, governments, and international agencies should do more to limit the spread of misinformation.
"Facebook, Twitter, and online newspapers have been identified as the best platforms for monitoring misinformation and dispelling rumors, stigma, and conspiracy theories among the general people," the study authors wrote.
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