Since the outbreak in Wuhan, China in December 2019, the C orona virus has continued to be a conversation among the people. Many people are worried about being infected with a deadly virus called COVID-19.
Transmission of the Corona virus is very fast. In a span of 2 months, the COVID-19 virus has spread to 28 countries, infecting more than 40,000 people and killing more than 1,000 people in China. This makes a lot of people panic so that they misunderstand information and are consumed by hoaks.
In a health seminar held by the Eijkman Molecular Biology Institute in Jakarta on Wednesday (02/12/2020), Kompas senior journalist Ahmad Arif said that the application of risk communication that combines the elements of speed and accuracy is very important in preventing transmission of the Corona virus.
"The social and economic impact due to the spread of misinformation can be more severe than the spread of the virus itself. Therefore, we must control the chaos and information that develops in the community, so that it does not become a new disaster," Arif said.
According to Arif, the government, research institutions, and authorities must be able to communicate risks based on science to foster public confidence. The aim is that the public can be more alert, prepare themselves, and reduce the impact caused by the Corona virus.
"People need an explanation not only by bureaucrats, but also scientific explanations by experts. Scientists and governments must be present to fill the information vacuum. If it is not filled in, it can later provide space for the hoaks, "said the disaster journalism expert.
