Hi All, As you reach out to your communities with evidence-based COVID-19 data and information, consider some messaging on how to evaluate health news articles and websites as well as fraud protection.

Patrons will see a lot of claims through their social media about:

  *   Origin of the virus [Example- it's a bioweapon engineered by the Chinese (false)]
  *   Phony cures [Example- drinking bleach cures the disease (false and dangerous to one's health)]
  *   Downplaying the seriousness to public health [Example- it's really just a cold but some people are using it to a political advantage (false)]

Urge community members to evaluate health websites and "information" by asking these questions:

  *   What's the actual source of the data or information? Who are they? Are they authorities on the topic?
  *   What do other reputable sources say? (Like WHO, CDC, NIH, Maine CDC, major hospital systems)
  *   How up-to-date is the information?
  *   What's the motivation behind the article or website? (Money, Racism, Nationalism, Politics, etc.)

As you communicate to your communities, remember many have low health literacy levels:

  1.  Keep communications short and simple. Limit to 3-4 points at a time.
  2.  Don't overload people with too much info at once. Deliver messages in small chunks.
  3.  Use easy-to-understand graphics to complement the message.

Warn people about possible frauds:

  *   Fake cures
  *   Government payments (trying to get your personal info or access to your money)
  *   Charity scams
  *   Investment scams

The information and community leadership you provide is invaluable to the people who depend on you. Thanks for stepping up during this challenging time. Contact me if you need help with health-related information and education. Deb

Deborah A. Clark, MLIS
Library Management Specialist
Maine State Library
Portland Public Library, Third Floor
5 Monument Square
Portland, ME 04101
(207)871-1765
1-800-649-7696 Ext. 765
Fax: (207)871-1703
E-mail: [log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>

"Great Libraries Build Strong Communities"