Older Ontarians most involved in spreading COVID-19 misinformation online, study shows

By The Canadian Press

TORONTO – A new study suggests Ontario residents between the ages of 55 and 64 are most involved in spreading misinformation about COVID-19 on social media.

Research published today by the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) found that six percent of Ontarians are spreading misinformation about the pandemic online and the vast majority are older adults.

Men and women in that age group were almost equally involved in sharing misinformation and the research found many posters had been accessing right-leaning websites and U.S. politics blogs.

Twenty-six percent of misinformation came from one website, OMA said.

The study by Advanced Symbolics Inc. applied artificial intelligence technology to Twitter posts made between March 24, 2020, and March 24, 2021.

It found engagement was highest in eastern Ontario communities, including Ottawa, its surrounding areas, and rural areas.

Association president Dr. Samantha Hill says the study shows misinformation needs to be addressed across all communities and demographic groups.

“The best antidote is to provide clear, consistently high quality, factual information,” said Hill.

“Ontario’s doctors have been combatting COVID misinformation throughout the pandemic, and these new insights make us even more committed to providing evidence-based facts to stamp down the misinformation on social media.”

OMA CEO Allan O’Dette is encouraging everyone to seek facts from credible sources like doctors.

“It’s only by separating the facts from the fiction that we will make sound decisions that will protect us, our loved ones, and our communities.”

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