Which Coronavirus Conspiracy Theories Exist?

The COVID-19 infodemic has led to a massive cascade of viral misinformation, including conspiracy theories about the virus’s origins and vaccines. These theories have been linked to vaccine refusals, with fear, wealth, and social media playing a significant role in their spread.

The Gates conspiracy theories are part of an ocean of misinformation on COVID-19 that is spreading online. These theories can be dangerous and can be difficult to identify, debunk, and counter. Some examples include QAnon, a convoluted conspiracy theory that claims President Trump is waging a secret war against Satan-worshipping elite paedophiles, and a swirling mass of false claims about the pandemic.

As the COVID-19 crisis worsens, the world also faces a global misinformation pandemic. Conspiracy theories that behave like viruses themselves can be dangerous and require careful identification and counterbalance. Research has shown that conspiracy beliefs claiming the pandemic is a hoax are linked to weaker support for containment-related behavior.

Online speculation about the origins of COVID-19 is soaring, and the World Health Organization has warned that misinformation related to COVID-19 constitutes an “infodemic”. Psychotic experiences have been shown to be a risk factor for various psychiatric disorders such as depression, anxiety, and post-pandemic depression.

In conclusion, the COVID-19 infodemic has led to a proliferation of conspiracy theories and false information, with the potential to negatively impact vaccine refusals and public health.