WHO joins TikTok to battle coronavirus misinformation

In its continued efforts to tamp down misinformation about COVID-19, the illness caused by the new coronavirus from China, the World Health Organization has joined social media platform TikTok to share “reliable and timely public health advice.”

Advertisement

WHO’s first TikTok video, posted on the platform Feb. 28, according to USA Today, features Benedetta Allegranzi, MD, the organization’s technical lead of infection prevention and control. In the video, Dr. Allegranzi describes proper hand-washing, coughing and sneezing techniques to best prevent the spread of coronavirus, and lists possible symptoms of the virus.

The group’s second video assures viewers that face masks need only be worn by health workers, caretakers and individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough and runny nose. For those groups, Dr. April Baller, part of WHO’s health emergencies program, outlines in the video proper mask-wearing technique.

WHO has made a point of focusing on social media to crack down on misinformation about the fast-spreading virus, which has infected more than 90,000 worldwide. In mid-February, the organization met with tech giants including Amazon, Google, Twitter and YouTube at Facebook’s headquarters to brainstorm ways to battle the spread of false information.

More articles on consumerism:
Best Buy Health launches medical alert app and wearable
Patients say portals have biggest impact on engagement, KLAS finds
Amazon adds CDC notice to coronavirus searches

Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit

Advertisement

Next Up in Health IT

Advertisement

Comments are closed.