What is “disease X” and why has it generated so much confusion (and conspiracy theories)?

by time news

2024-01-19 11:27:00

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These days, through various platforms and social networks, various rumors have been launched about the so-called “disease However, this term, coined by the World Health Organization (WHO), does not refer to an existing pathology, but to a hypothetical entity.

It is an abstract concept, a code name for a still unknown pathogen that could, theoretically, cause a serious international health crisis. However, this term has been misinterpreted and distorted, giving rise to a wave of misinformation and conspiracy theories.

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It is not an imminent threat

Despite the WHO’s efforts to clarify its meaning, “disease an emerging disease with a higher mortality than COVID-19. These unfounded claims have found fertile ground in the fear and uncertainty generated by the recent pandemic, leading to erroneous and alarmist interpretations.

The reality is that the WHO introduced this term in 2017 in its list of priority diseases for research. Its goal was to highlight the possibility that an unknown pathogen could trigger a pandemic and to underscore the need to prepare for the unknown.

In March 2020, The Lancet Infectious Diseases published a study titled “Disease Pathogen (the pathogen that leads to Disease X) and identified areas of product development and international coordination that would help combat any future Disease

This proactive approach seeks to encourage research and development of vaccines and medicines that can be rapidly adapted to emerging pathogens, as seen in the rapid response to the development of COVID-19 vaccines.

Impact on public health

The misunderstanding surrounding “disease X” has been amplified by conspiracy theories that link it to dark plans of “global elites.” Such narratives have spread particularly around events such as the conference of the World Economic Forum in Davoswhere this concept was discussed.

“Of course, there are people who say this could create panic. It is better to anticipate something that could happen because it has already happened many times in our history, and prepare for it,” WHO director Tedros said this week in Davos. Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

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Conspiracy theories distort reality, presenting preparedness for unknown threats as part of an alleged plan to trigger a pandemic.

The spread of these falsehoods is not trivial; has serious implications for public health. It generates distrust in health and scientific institutions, weakening disease prevention and control efforts. In addition, it diverts attention from real health threats and can delay response to real emergencies.

In conclusion, “Disease X” is a reminder of the constant evolution of the world of pathogens and the need to be prepared for the unexpected. Its misinterpretation and use in conspiracy theories is not only a challenge for scientific communication, but also a risk for global public health. It is essential that information be transmitted clearly and accurately, and that the public is informed and prepared to discern between facts and fictions in the field of health.

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