Managing Infodemics and Conspiracy Theories

This one-hour webinar, which is part of the Hot Topics series, reviews how public health professionals can make sure accurate messages cut through an abundance of information and help steer the public conversation.

Learning Objectives

• List key elements that nurture the rise of false and misleading information, like uncertainty and mistrust.
• Understand the connections between COVID-19 and climate change conspiracy theories and messaging.
• Consider how to apply findings and strategies from the latest research on the psychology of misinformation to your communications work.

Intended Audiences

Local, state, and tribal public health professionals; communication specialists

Presenter

Lauren Jenks, MPH, CHES, Assistant Secretary, Environmental Public Health Division, Washington State Department of Health

Discussion Questions

1. What types of misinformation about COVID-19 or climate change are you hearing in your community?
2. What are some of the challenges in addressing misinformation on your organization's social media channels?
3. Which communication tools and strategies have been most helpful in combating uncertainty and mistrust around public health issues in your community?

Resources

• COVID Misinformation Is Killing People
• World Health Organization Infodemiology Conference
• Public Health Communications Collaborative