Fighting Covid 19 Misinformation

The Light with Raymond Tyler

Let’s face it. When it comes to Covid-19. The one thing that can be agreed upon is that Covid-19 has been a pain. The pain of death, sickness, loss of income, and freedom has taking a serious toll on all of us. Everything else about Covid-19, people debate .

Misinformation about Covid-19 is nothing to laugh about. I spoke with Shaydanay Urbani, who is First Draft.org’s,  Partnerships and Programs Manager in New York, where she covers disinformation and trains journalists internationally in verification and responsible reporting.  One of the problems Ms. Urbani sites is “some of the mis-information may actually have a kernel of truth.” Ms. Urbani discussed how some “news sites” have picked up on the small percentages of people that have gotten sick from Covid-19 vaccines and are trying to paint a narrative that the vaccine isn’t safe. The fact remains that the vaccine is saving lives. Most people have little to no reaction from the vaccine. Those that are affected usually come down with a low grade fever for a short time that can be treated with Tylenol. It is also a fact that nation wide at this moment unvaccinated people are dying at a rate of about 1,000 people per day.

Ms. Urbani also pointed out that one of the biggest sources of mis-Information is Facebook groups, especially those that target minorities. Some of these groups target people that speak other languages than English. According to Ms. Urbani people from other countries may not read or write English or comprehend the jargon as reported around Covid 19 in some mainstream/verified news sources.(Don’t feel bad. I have covered Covid since day zero and I have to ask experts to explain again.) So for some reason there are Facebook communities and groups that can speak to people in their native language, however, the information can be wrong. Here’s what I say about that:

A. VERIFY. Research is not fun but neither is suffering from bad information. The CDC is still the best source we have for Covid-19 information.

B. If you are blessed to speak a language other than English? Consider sharing accurate information in that language. Medium.com is an excellent resource to share information.

As always you still have to be aware of fraud. There are “experts” everywhere with “herbal supplements” and “natural remedies.” Many people have indeed had their health and lives improved by eating better, more physical activity, proper rest and adding natural supplements to their diet. (I like to think I am one of these people.) However, when someone tells you that their shake, powder or pill can keep you from getting Covid-19, that is fraud pure and simple. Frankly, some people will tell you it cures the common cold  and hypochondria if it separates you from your cash. Again, let me be clear on 2 things: Number one, I do believe drinking alkaline water is much better than Mountain Dew. Number two, there is no proven scientific prevention for Covid-19 that beats the vaccines that are being made available.

In closing I’d like to also remind you.

In NJ you can visit covid19.nj.gov for the most accurate information on Covid-19 and vaccines.

Call (General COVID-19 Questions): 2-1-1 (24/7)

Call (Medical COVID-19 Questions): 1-800-962-1253

Medical Information from healthcare professionals on symptoms, when to seek medical attention, and proper steps to take if exposed to COVID-19. (24/7)

Call (Vaccine Appointment Support): 1-855-568-0545 (8a-8p)

Text NJCOVID to 898-211 to receive alerts

Also to get vaccinated, you do not need insurance and there is no out of pocket cost. Please report anyone that may try and charge you to book an appointment or to get a vaccination.

You can connect with Raymond Tyler via Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Instagram @RaymondTyler2018.

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