Story by Luis Nhika
HEALTH experts have underscored the importance of responsible and accurate reporting in combating misinformation and strengthening HIV prevention efforts.
This emerged during a media sensitisation workshop on Lenacapavir, a new pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) intervention, held in Harare this Thursday.
The workshop brought together journalists and health practitioners amid growing concern over the spread of false or misleading health information, particularly on digital platforms.
Organisation for Public Health Interventions and Development (OPHID) Technical Director, Dr Pugie Chimberengwa said balanced and evidence-based reporting plays a critical role in helping communities make informed health decisions.
“Journalists and media practitioners have a responsibility to ensure information shared with the public is balanced, factual and evidence-based, helping bridge the gap between healthcare systems and communities,” Dr Chimberengwa said.
Health experts warned that misinformation continues to pose a serious threat to public health by influencing medical decisions and undermining trust in healthcare interventions.
The spread of excessive or inaccurate information, commonly referred to as an infodemic, has become a growing challenge as more communities rely on online platforms and media outlets for health information.
Experts noted that the problem is compounded by deliberate disinformation aimed at distorting scientific facts and confusing the public.
In HIV prevention efforts, accurate communication is viewed as essential in helping communities understand available prevention methods, including oral pre-exposure prophylaxis pills and long-acting injectable options such as Lenacapavir.
Globally, public health institutions continue to stress the importance of verified information in improving awareness, strengthening trust in healthcare systems and supporting informed decision-making.
