While testing is ramping up to detect COVID-19, misleading information is circulating social media about how — and whether — the tests detect the virus.
Melbourne is in the midst of a testing blitz to control the latest coronavirus outbreak.
These tests detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and can involve having a swab inserted up one or both nostrils, or into the back of your throat. Some people find this method uncomfortable, but they're not dangerous. "They are considered to be the most reliable and are regularly assessed for efficacy as part of the validation studies in laboratories.", despite the spike in locally acquired cases in some parts of Australia.
"I've seen them shared by friends and acquaintances, who are promoting scaremongering and false information — some of it clearly written in America because they use terms like Q-tips," Mr Sommerville said. Despite being incorrect, posts citing these claims with text like "COVID-19 Test A FRAUD?" have spread widely through Australian Facebook groups and have been promoted by anti-vaccine campaigners.
Online conspiracy communities are active in spreading misinformation about the effectiveness and safety of COVID-19 testingFirst Draft, which tracks misinformation trends, has also observed text circulating in English, French and Spanish from early July that calls the test into question, without basis.
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