Instagram is blocking hashtags linked to verifiably false information about vaccines in an attempt to prevent a public health disaster. It's responding to public pressure for social media platforms to take greater responsibility for the misinformation they host and help spread. We explore the insights behind this and how Instagram is taking action against anti-vaccination campaigns.
By checking posts as well as hashtags, Instagram is tightening measures to prevent the spread of misinformation about vaccines on the platform. Social media sites have previously come under fire for helping to proliferate content relating to issues such as self-harm and body dysmorphia, and anti-vax posts are similarly dangerous as they threaten herd immunity. “The only reason the rates of infectious diseases, such as measles, were on the decline was due to effective vaccinations. So, to claim that not vaccinating children will be beneficial is illogical,” writes medical journalist Hadley Stewart.
'Natural' lifestyles tend to incorporate organic food and herbal beauty products, but those who are extending this attitude towards medicine may threaten the safety of those around them. With a growing number of parents choosing not to vaccinate their children, some Gen Zers have taken to Redditto educate themselves on immunisation and make their own informed decisions. The decision to seek information online belies a lack of access to traditional healthcare, but the often unregulated nature of social media can make it difficult to obtain reliable advice. Health technology firms are looking to fill this gap, while Instagram's efforts to block anti-vax hashtags can at least stop people from being exposed to malicious misinformation.
Abi Buller is the editorial assistant at Canvas8, which specializes in behavioral insights and consumer research. She holds a degree in Creative Direction for Fashion from the University of the Arts London. Outside of work, you'll find her wandering around art galleries, practising yoga and seeking out new pastel-coloured garments to add to her collection.
