Local authorities and people in Ho Chi Minh City are stretched thin in their fight against the pandemic, facing challenges ranging from ensuring the livelihood of freelance workers and the poor to safeguarding human lives. A spate of fake news related to COVID-19 has further exacerbated the community’s anxiety. Once again, the issue of combating misinformation is raised.
Misinformation is spreading online, causing panic among the public
Each of us must learn to discern and filter information, staying updated through official and credible sources to accurately understand the pandemic situation. Let’s explore the following article to gain a better understanding!
1 What is Fake News?
Fake news, also known as junk or false news, refers to a type of journalistic or propaganda content that disseminates inaccurate information and hoaxes through various media outlets or social media platforms.
This type of content aims to sensationalize and create misleading narratives, often without verification or fact-checking by reliable sources.
Fake news, also known as junk or false news
2 How to Identify Fake News
Although some fake news stories are entirely fabricated, they often attract significant attention and spark discussions. To identify and discern fake news or rumors circulating in our daily lives, keep the following points in mind:
Check the Domain of the Website Publishing the Information
Misleading and false information is usually published on websites with foreign domains (.com, .org). Official websites of government organizations in Vietnam typically have a national domain “.vn” and display a copyright mark (a blue tick), along with specific address and registration information.
Check the Author’s Name and Read the Content Carefully
Fake news articles often omit the author’s name. It’s crucial to read the content carefully, scrutinize the information, and consider different perspectives to determine if the information is genuine or not. Avoid relying solely on your subjective judgment.
Fake news articles often contain spelling errors, disorganized structure, or manipulated images and videos. They may also alter event dates or twist facts to suit their narrative.
Cross-Check Information with Reputable Sources
Verify the information by referring to similar content on trusted websites or seeking advice from experts in the field.
It’s essential to discern and filter information to find reliable sources
3 Official and Reliable Sources for COVID-19 Information
Hotlines for COVID-19-related Inquiries
Ministry of Health Hotline: 19009095
Health Declaration Support Hotline: 18001119
You can contact these hotlines for timely assistance and advice if you encounter violations of COVID-19 prevention and control regulations or if you or your loved ones exhibit symptoms of the disease.
Hotlines for COVID-19-related inquiries
Ministry of Health Channels
Official Website of the Ministry of Health
Link: https://moh.gov.vn/
The Ministry of Health’s website publishes decisions, documents, and accurate and reliable information related to healthcare, wellness, and other pressing social issues.
Official Website of the Ministry of Health
Ministry of Health’s Dedicated Website for COVID-19
Link: https://ncov.moh.gov.vn/
This website provides detailed updates on the COVID-19 situation, including the latest cases and important announcements for the public. It also offers statistics on the global and local pandemic situation, such as infection and recovery rates, and patient status. Additionally, you can find information on designated COVID-19 treatment hospitals and other useful resources.
Ministry of Health’s Dedicated Website for COVID-19
Zalo Channel of the Ministry of Health
Link: Zalo Channel of the Ministry of Health
In addition to the two websites mentioned above, the Ministry of Health also has an official channel on Zalo, allowing users to stay updated on the latest pandemic developments. By clicking “Follow,” you will receive notifications about new announcements and updates. The channel also offers convenient access to information and assistance similar to the Ministry’s website.
Zalo Channel of the Ministry of Health
Government Portal
Link: http://chinhphu.vn/
Facebook: Thông tin chính phủ (Government Information)
Through the Government Portal website and its official Facebook page, citizens can stay informed about the latest COVID-19 prevention and control measures, along with other important information. It also provides updates on the latest directives and management of the Government and the Prime Minister.
Government Portal
Suckhoedoisong Newspaper
Link: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/
This newspaper offers highly specialized and accurate content, providing reliable and useful information for healthcare and treatment. You can access their content through the printed newspaper, which is available nationwide, or their official website.
Suckhoedoisong Newspaper
NCOVI App
Download NCOVI App: Android and iOS
NCOVI is the official mobile application of the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Information and Communications. It helps users stay informed about the latest COVID-19 developments and receive important announcements and guidelines from the Government.
Additionally, users can actively report on the pandemic situation in their area, perform health declarations, report suspected cases, and receive alerts about areas with outbreaks to plan their travels safely, among other useful features.
NCOVI App
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Link: https://vietnamese.cdc.gov/
Download CDC App: Android và iOS
This is the website of a US government agency under the Department of Health and Human Services, based in Georgia. The website offers content in Vietnamese, including information from the US Department of Health, to promote global community health during the complex pandemic situation, such as vaccine updates, symptom identification, patient care, and scientific developments like new variants.
Note: The website primarily uses English, with only a few articles available in Vietnamese. This may pose a challenge for some readers.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The above guide on identifying fake news (fake news) about COVID-19 is our way of helping you stay informed. We hope that through this article, you have gained valuable insights into recognizing misinformation and finding official and reliable sources of COVID-19 information.
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