MISINFODEMIC IMPACTS ON CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR IN CIRCUMSTANCES OF GLOBAL CRISIS OR RECESSION WITH FOCUS ON COVID-19

Abstract

The Lancet, an online journal, recently commented that Covid-19 is not only a global health issue, it is about life itself. But far worse that this paper will say is that it can be about the future of the world. The Lancet goes on to say that there can be another pandemic, or pandemics, far worse than the Covid-19 that is currently claiming the lives of thousands the world over, which can happen in this century, or in the next century.

In addition to Covid-19, this paper also talks about another phenomenon that weighs heavily on global health – misinfodemic. Misinfodemicis literally misinformation, and it will make Covid-19 impact more worse. It can be intentional or unintentional, but it becomes viral as this is posted online or the internet by pseudo-health workers, who can be journalists, writers, or social media users (Gyenes& Mina, 2018). This misinformation becomes fact, irreversible, andis believed by millions – mothers, young and adults who have access to the internet. They believe the health recommendations as if part of life. The results can aggravate health risks.

Moreover, impacts of pandemics and recessions on consumer behaviour and economies are also incorporated in this paper.