Misinformation and rumours are two major challenges in the fight against COVID-19 in Angola and beyond. WHO and Angola’s Ministry of Health are working together on the COVID-19 Alliance, a system to combat the potentially harmful outbreak of online disinformation.
The alliance monitors and analyses conversations around the pandemic in the social and traditional media and develops content to combat misinformation. The group shares official data, regular updates and key messages about the disease on its website, through the media and on WhatsApp.
Popular myths about the COVID-19 misinformation scenario in Angola include messages about polio vaccination, because "it is an experiment to evaluate the COVID-19 vaccine", or that "the disease does not exist in the country”.
Access to officially verified information is crucial with regard to the prevention of COVID-19, as well as when it comes to ensuring the good health of the population. Promoting access to correct information and combating disinformation contributes to better public participation in the response to this unprecedented pandemic.
The COVID-19 Alliance system receives about 100 messages a day from people seeking clarification about rumours, access to tests, facts about the disease and its transmission as well as preventive measures.
Angola has integrated infodemic management in its response to end the COVID-19 pandemic. In the African region, WHO, partner organisations and fact-checking groups have launched an alliance to monitor and combat disinformation about the pandemic and other health emergencies.
WHO thanks all donors and partners who have contributed to fund the Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan to combat COVID-19. A special appreciation goes to Member States and other contributors who provided flexible funds, making it possible for WHO to deliver a coherent, strategic and broad response.
Read more about WHO’s response to COVID-19