COVID death rates are inflated
Another far-right myth is that lockdown orders and other social segregation measures are unnecessary because COVID death statistics are exaggerated. Dr. Annie Bukacek, whose YouTube address warning that COVID death certificates are being faked has been seen more than a quarter of a million times, is prominent in spreading this fallacy. Bukacek presents as a credible medical expert since she is wearing a white lab coat and a stethoscope around her neck. She is actually a far-right anti-vaccination and anti-abortion activist who was formerly known for carrying miniature plastic fetuses into the Montana state assembly, as Rolling Stone magazine discovered after digging a bit more. Of course, she is not supported by any evidence when she claims that COVID death rates are overstated. More likely than not, the current mortality toll is significantly understated. The Centers for Disease Control have released data concerning extra fatalities linked to COVID-19 to better explain the situation.
How to recognize and debunk conspiracy theories
Whether it is about COVID, climate change, or anything else, it is critical to speak out against online false information and conspiratorial theories. A crucial resource is the guidebook (PDF) written by John Cook and Stephan Lewandowsky, who have both had a great deal of success battling climate denial.
Recall that it is our policy not to connect directly to social media accounts or websites that spread false information and conspiracy theories in order to prevent increasing their prominence.
