Analysis
A January 5 social media post from a person claiming to be an Indonesian physician continues to circulate and generate conversations about the cause of disease outbreaks. The post claims that disease outbreaks, including polio and bird flu, are the result of the release of synthetic viruses. It has received over 200 responses, including dozens in the last week. Recent responses claim that vaccination is part of a depopulation plot and dismiss recent disease outbreaks as hoaxes, a “plandemic,” and part of a “pandemic of fear.”
Recommendations
The belief that polio and other diseases are man made or released as part of a plot to harm certain populations is widespread. Debunking messaging may explain that polio is a real disease that is caused by poliovirus, not a man-made outbreak. Polio existed long before humans discovered viruses or how to make synthetic viruses. Talking points may emphasize that vaccination is the only way to prevent polio and protect children around the world from the debilitating disease.