While social media can be a great tool to share important information, unverified information on social media platforms is becoming a concern for Authorities.
Patron of the Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Sir Peter Barter, says irresponsible news spreading on social media is causing serious uncertainties on COVID-19 in PNG.
Sir Peter said this has affected how people in PNG should work with the National and provincial task force towards a plan that will save thousands of lives.
Sir Peter said patients and staff who are infected are also refusing to be vaccinated due to unreliable news on social media.
Senior Researcher Fellow of PNGIMR in Madang, Dr. Livingstone Tavul called on NICTA should take immediate measures to control the spread of conflicting information that is flooding the social media.
“It is important that people get reliable sources based on scientific evidence to inform the public to make informed decisions,” said Dr. Tavul.
Sir Peter also brushed aside peoples’ fears of getting vaccinated saying he was also vaccinated and had no effect until 6 days later.
He said he experienced fever with aches and pains which were uncomfortable and it all eased on day 7 with no side effects.
Sir Peter Barter also stressed on the importance of testing and the need for more isolation centres.
“Sending people to their homes may result in people spreading the virus,” says Sir Barter.
