Stigmatization spreads faster than the virus. Viruses do not discriminate, and neither should we.” Combatting the stigmatization surrounding coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic

Abstract

Infectious diseases are one of the most important problems of the last century. Epidemics have caused the stigmatization of managers, healthcare professionals, and those likely to be infected throughout history. Although many infectious diseases caused stigmas both in the past and today, a new name is added to the list of epidemics in various regions in the world each year and the masses become alerted. The latest disease added to the list is the new coronavirus (COVID-19). Today, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has influenced the whole world, the risk of social stigmatization reappears. In this context, it is very important to take the necessary measures to prevent stigmatization and to plan the interventions.