OTHER OPINIONS : Don't be infected with bad information

By The News-Enterprise

Posted: October 15, 2009 at 6:17 a.m.

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Elizabethtown, Ky. — Bad information is infectious. And, unfortunately, it’s all around.

With the H1N1 virus, it is no different; and it’s only a mouse click or conversation away.

With words like “pandemic” and “widespread” in news reports, it becomes even more difficult to discern what’s real, what’s sensationalized or, worse yet, what’s simply untrue.

Health-care agencies, national and state agencies, and media outlets are working to provide correct information about the virus and how to protect against it. In order for it to take hold, it’s important that everyone - those who receiveinformation and those who distribute it - do so wisely and responsibly. …

When it’s a matter of public health, knowledge and action are the best defenses. Not just this year - and not with just the swine flu - but every year, all year, it is important to take the appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of germs.

If you receive information that sounds sensational or questionable, it very well may be. Assumptions, panic and fear fueled by misinformation or misinterpretation will only make matters worse. … - The News-Enterprise (Elizabethtown, Ky.)

Opinion, Pages 6 on 10/15/2009

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