09. How a Health Crisis Unfolded in Harmony, USA

09. How a Health Crisis Unfolded in Harmony, USA

In the United States, a small town named Harmony becomes the epicenter of a health crisis when false information about a new disease spreads rapidly on social media. Local resident, Emily Johnson, a mother of two, shares a viral post claiming the disease is a government conspiracy. This misinformation delays the town's response to the outbreak, overwhelming Harmony's healthcare system.

Individual outcomes

Individuals like Emily experience confusion and mistrust towards health authorities, leading to poor health choices.

Societal outcomes

Societally, the misinformation causes a public health crisis, stretching medical resources thin and endangering the broader community.

Competences involved in this scenario:

Social systems affected by this scenario:

M6. Claim verification
M7. Evaluation of multiple sources
D4. Detection of digital deception

Public Health Systems
Media
Community Organizations