Combating Misinformation on Antimicrobials

In the current landscape of information and digital media, tackling misinformation is a significant challenge. Catherine Bertrand Ferrandis, DVM, a veterinarian and public health consultant, recently discussed with Contagion how to address misinformation about antimicrobials and the role of the One Health approach in this process.

Bertrand Ferrandis explained that understanding the existing information landscape is important, saying, “Before attempting to counteract any issues, we need to understand the situation. What information is circulating in the public domain? What narratives are associated with it? More importantly, what are the questions, concerns, and information gaps within the communities?”

She highlighted the concept of the “infodemic,” an overload of information that includes misinformation, disinformation, and outdated data—that became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. “During the COVID-19 crisis, we identified a phenomenon that was somewhat like an ‘elephant in the room’ we knew it was there but couldn’t fully grasp it. This phenomenon is known as the infodemic,” she explains.

Regarding antimicrobial resistance, which will be discussed at the World Antimicrobial Resistance Congress at which Bertrand Ferrandis is presenting, stressed the importance of addressing misinformation directly. The roots of misinformation and disinformation lie in unanswered questions, concerns, and information voids left by authorities, scientists, or health professionals during crises, or in everyday life,” she said. “To prevent misinformation and disinformation from filling these gaps, it’s important to address these questions and concerns directly. If health professionals don’t respond, people may turn to unreliable sources.”

Bertrand Ferrandis supported the One Health approach, which integrates perspectives from various sectors, including human health, animal health, and environmental sciences. She explained, “Interdisciplinary approaches are essential, different fields offer unique insights and can help bridge gaps in understanding that lead to misinformation.”

Journalists play a key role in this context, “Training journalists is essential. They need to understand the infodemic and its roots and how to combat misinformation and disinformation. Journalists should be attentive to the questions and concerns of their audience,” she said.

Social media presents challenges and opportunities. Bertrand Ferrandis recommended social listening to monitor online discussions about antimicrobial resistance, “Understanding what people read and are influenced by helps address misinformation effectively. Most misinformation is not intentional; people usually share information with the intention of helping or informing others,” she stated.

Positive initiatives like the "IMR Narrative" in South Africa, which encourages people to share their experiences with antimicrobial resistance, aim to raise awareness and counter misinformation. She stated, “This initiative empowers individuals who have experienced antimicrobial resistance to share their stories. It connects with WHO and other global organizations to raise awareness and provide real-life experiences related to antimicrobial resistance,” she said.

On a practical level, Bertrand Ferrandis advised stakeholders from various sectors to engage in regular dialogues. For example, physicians and veterinarians should share perspectives to ensure comprehensive understanding and communication. Public health professionals should also be trained to address misinformation through resources such as the WHO e-learning courses.

At a broader level, understanding the composition of information environments in different health sectors is essential for addressing the infodemic. Ongoing research will help develop strategies to protect antimicrobials and enhance public trust in health information.

Bertrand Ferrandis concluded by emphasizing the need to build trust and address public concerns to prevent misinformation, “To address the infodemic effectively, we must listen to people’s questions and concerns and fill their information gaps. At every level, the goal is to build trust and create resilience against misinformation and disinformation.”