Misinformation: The Other Epidemic
News
In a world where information flows freely, misinformation spreads even faster, perpetuating harmful stigmas and endangering lives. Mpox, falsely branded a “gay disease,” highlights the dire need for a unified global effort to combat this epidemic of falsehoods. Cuso International calls for action to protect vulnerable communities and uphold public health for all.
Information is more accessible than ever, yet the rapid spread of misinformation is relentless and with potentially devastating consequences. One of the most concerning examples today is the stigma and misconceptions about mpox and its association with the LGBTQI+ community. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other public health authorities are working to correct these myths, but the persistence of misinformation continues to put LGBTQI+ people at greater risk of disease and harmful discrimination.
The recent mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and neighboring African countries is a stark reminder of this issue. The WHO declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern in August of this year. Since then, the DRC has seen about 30,000 suspected cases and there have been more than 800 deaths across 15 countries. Cuso International’s team and partners working in the region have seen firsthand the toll misinformation takes, not only on the LGBTQI+ community but across society.
Mpox is a viral illness that can affect anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or lifestyle. Yet false narratives continue to perpetuate myths that mpox is a “gay disease.” These misconceptions not only hinder public health efforts but also stigmatize the LGBTQI+ community. As we saw during the HIV/AIDS epidemic, misinformation can fuel fear and animosity towards an already marginalized group, leading to more violence, discrimination and barriers to healthcare access. It also distracts from the actions that are needed to successfully limit the spread of the disease.
On 13th September 2024 Canada announced it would make available 200,000 vaccine doses from Canada’s existing supply to support the global response to the mpox outbreak. This is an important contribution and will save lives. But Canada should do more and needs to take a stand to fight against the dangerous rhetoric being circulated – not just to protect marginalised groups, but to protect us all.
At Cuso International, we know that education is our most powerful tool in combating both disease and discrimination. With years of experience working in Africa and marginalized communities worldwide, we have seen firsthand the devastating impact of misinformation on public health. We urgently call for a coordinated global campaign to counter this epidemic of falsehoods. Without action – drawing on credible sources, health ministries, NGO’s, community leaders and media – too many lives will be needlessly at risk. For the mother and her unborn child, the rural family already facing impossible climate challenges or those whose health is already compromised, we must stand together, spread the truth and protect one another from this preventable disease.
Sally J M Douglas
Director, Engagement: responsible for marketing, communications, fundraising and alumni engagement
Cuso International