Expert calls for strategic response in tackling health misinformation

 

As Nigeria navigates the post-pandemic era, public health misinformation remains a pressing challenge, with experts calling for urgent action to curb its spread.

One of the leading voices in this fight is Tope Amusa, a statistician with specialization in biostatistics and public health analysis, whose one of his focus is on combating misinformation and improving health communication.

Speaking with our correspondent, Amusa emphasized the dangers of unchecked misinformation, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We witnessed a flood of false health information, from vaccine conspiracies to unfounded herbal cures. These misconceptions not only endangered lives but also undermined trust in public health institutions,” he said.

Amusa’s research highlights the role of social media in spreading misinformation. Platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter became major channels for misleading health claims, which many Nigerians accepted without verification. “Social media has revolutionized information sharing, but it has also made it easier for false narratives to thrive,” he noted.

One of the most alarming instances of misinformation was the belief that 5G technology was responsible for the spread of COVID-19. Despite repeated debunking by scientists and government agencies, the theory persisted. “The speed at which that falsehood spread underscores the need for proactive fact-checking and media literacy,” Amusa said.

His research proposes several strategies to combat misinformation, including leveraging trusted voices in society. “Religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community influencers have the power to shape public perception. Engaging them in public health campaigns can significantly counter false narratives,” he explained.

Amusa also advocates for media literacy programs to equip Nigerians with the skills to verify health information. “If people know how to fact-check and scrutinize sources, they will be less susceptible to misinformation. Education is a powerful tool in this fight,” he asserted.

In addition, his work emphasizes the importance of transparency in health communication. “People trust institutions that communicate openly and honestly. The government and health organizations must provide timely, clear, and accessible health information to the public,” he said.

Organizations like Africa Check and Dubawa have made progress in debunking health-related misinformation, but Amusa believes more localized initiatives are needed. “Community-based fact-checking teams can help counter misinformation before it spreads widely,” he suggested.

With Nigeria’s healthcare system still grappling with the effects of the pandemic, Amusa insists that tackling misinformation is crucial for future public health resilience. “Misinformation is not just a problem of the past. If we don’t address it now, it will continue to hinder health interventions and cost lives,” he warned.

As the nation moves forward, experts like Amusa continue to push for evidence-based health communication strategies. “Public health is a collective responsibility. The government, media, and citizens all have a role to play in ensuring that accurate health information prevails,” he concluded.