Misinformation on social media is creating unnecessary panic

Public Health PS Mary Muthoni. [Collins Oduor, Standard]

The rise of misinformation surrounding Mpox, particularly on social media, is posing significant challenges to public health efforts. As the Ministry of Health continues its work to manage the outbreak, misleading comparisons to the Covid-19 pandemic are creating unnecessary panic.

It is important to clarify that Mpox and Covid-19 are entirely different viruses, with distinct transmission patterns and health risks.

The fear that lockdowns or stringent restrictions will be reintroduced is not grounded in fact. Neither the government nor international health authorities are considering such measures in response to Mpox.

Misinformation often thrives on fear, and this outbreak has proven no different. Speculation and false narratives only serve to distract from the critical need for informed, evidence-based action.

These falsehoods undermine the real efforts by global and national health authorities to protect public health and save lives.

Public understanding of how Mpox spreads has also been clouded by misinformation. The virus is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials, such as bedding or utensils.

While respiratory droplets during close, prolonged interaction can spread the virus, Mpox is not an STI.

However, sexual activity can facilitate transmission through close contact with infected areas. Clear, accurate information about transmission is essential to preventing both the spread of the virus and the stigma associated with it.

Stigma, unfortunately, is a persistent issue in public health crises, and Mpox is no exception. Marginalised communities have been unfairly targeted, which only deepens the challenge of controlling the virus.

Discrimination discourages individuals from seeking treatment and makes containment more difficult. Efforts must be focused on providing care and support, not on assigning blame or fueling division.

Amid these challenges, there is an urgent need for reliable information. The Ministry of Health and other health authorities are committed to transparency and to providing the public with accurate, timely updates on Mpox.

However, this effort requires collective responsibility. Individuals must critically assess the content they consume, especially on social media, and resist the urge to share unverified claims. Credible sources, including health authorities, should guide public understanding and response.

Trust in health authorities is essential in managing this and future outbreaks. Misinformation erodes that trust, making it harder to protect public health.

The World Health Organisation, the Health ministry and other health bodies are working tirelessly to control the spread of Mpox and other diseases. Spreading unfounded claims undermines their efforts and endangers lives.

As misinformation continues to spread, a unified effort is required to counteract its effects. Public health challenges like Mpox demand clear, factual communication.

The Health ministry will continue to provide the necessary information to ensure that people can protect themselves and their communities. Facts, not fear, must shape the response to this outbreak.

A well-informed public is the best defence against both the virus and the dangerous myths that surround it.Misinformation is a public health risk that we all have the power to combat.

Let’s work together to ensure that accurate information prevails, allowing the fight against Mpox to be grounded in facts, not fear. The right information can save lives. Let’s act now.

-Ms Muthoni is the Principal Secretary, Public Health and Professional Standards