Covid-19 information disorders on WhatsApp and non compliance to Covid-19 prevention measures

Abstract

The impact of social media on communication and information sharing is undeniable. However, it has also become a breeding ground for sensationalism, misinformation, and falsehoods. This has been argued in literature to have a significant impact on public opinion and decision-making. Social media platforms such as WhatsApp are prominently used for news dissemination. However, the ease of sharing information that these platforms have provide has led to the proliferation of information disorders such as misinformation and disinformation. Information disorders affect public opinion and decision making, shaping sentiment and influencing policymakers. Guided by Rothkopf's (2003) concept of ‘information disorders’ and Stuart Halls reception theory, this study uses content analysis and interviews to explore the nature of Covid-19 misinformation and disinformation that circulated on WhatsApp and how it influenced people not to adhere to Covid-19 prevention strategies that were meant to slow its spread. It found out that misinformation and disinformation about Covid-19 varied focusing on issues such as vaccine efficacy, Covid-19 cure and treatment among other issues. This paper argues that misinformation and disinformation influenced some people to not adhere to Covid 19 prevention measures.