As COVID-19 Spreads, So Is Misinformation: What is Being Done to Prevent It?

Whitney Phillips, assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, was quoted in the New York Times for the story, “Medical Expert Who Corrects Trump Is Now a Target of the Far Right,” and NBC for the story, “Coronavirus misinformation makes neutrality a distant memory for tech companies.” In both articles, Phillips tackles the issue of misinformation and it’s potential to put Americans in additional danger during the pandemic. While misinformation continues to be a problem, scientists and social media platforms are taking a stand and are addressing the false information before it can negatively affect the public.