Pushing Back on the Spread of COVID-19 Misinformation: A Guide for Health Centers

Misinformation about COVID-19 has spread almost as fast as the virus itself. In 2021, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy issued an?advisory about misinformation, warning that misinformation about COVID-19 is an urgent threat to public health that is putting American lives at risk. As the national voice for America’s Community Health Centers and an advocate for health care access for the medically underserved and uninsured, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), hears frequently from health centers that misinformation is one of the biggest challenges they face in responding to the pandemic. We created?this resource?to help health centers and other organizations counter misinformation in their communities—not only about COVID-19 but about other health issues as well.

Misinformation during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The sheer volume of communications about vaccines has skyrocketed during the past two years. The rise in the spread of inaccurate and misleading information about COVID-19 vaccines has created what some have called an “infodemic” — resulting in considerable confusion and an increase in vaccine hesitancy. People are rejecting and distrusting evidenced-based public health guidance and measures such as masking and physical distancing and using unproven COVID-19 treatments.

As highly trusted sources of health information, the nation's 1,400 Community Health Centers are well positioned to join national and local efforts to actively respond to COVID-19 misinformation. Health centers can help people make informed decisions about their health based on accurate, evidenced-based, and factual health information. In the past several months, we have created opportunities for health centers to hear from experts with tips about countering misinformation. Our new guide incorporates advice from Dr. Joe Smyser, PhD, Public Good Projects, and others.

Download Pushing Back on the Spread of COVID-19 Misinformation: A Resource to Help Health Centers to Take Action

This resource offers guidance on the difference between misinformation and "disinformation" and when to respond. One practical tip in the resource is the recommendation to use a "fact sandwich" approach to debunking false or misleading information.