The Impact of Social and Broadcast Media on Public Health Initiatives: Study of the COVID-19 Infodemics

Abstract

The COVID-19 outbreak, declared a pandemic in March 2020, lacked specific treatments until vaccine development. Medication misinformation via media caused panic, self-prescription, and drug resistance. False propaganda led to shortages. This study analyzes Google Trends for hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), azithromycin, and BCG vaccine searches across six countries. US, Brazil, and India showed interest in HCQ, while Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea focused on BCG vaccine. This article aims to raise awareness of adverse drug reactions, cautioning against self-prescription, political assumptions, and social media during future emergencies.