On Facebook a private user with an open profile shared a photo that shows Minister Venko Filipche in the operating room. Above the photo it is written: While some are already sleeping the minister operates and saves lives. Deep bow to the tireless Venko Filipce.
Although this is a positive post, it is still a misinformation. This is also confirmed by Minister Filipche himself on a post on his Twitter account, explaining that the photo was taken in 2019. He points out that at a time of global pandemic they are fully focused on dealing with the coronavirus and at the same time he’s asking people not to share disinformation related to it.
In another post, the minister said on his official Facebook profile that:
The battle with the virus will be much easily won if we win the battle with the fake news, inaccurate information and unverified recommendations. All of these contribute to creating panic that is very dangerous in times of crisis. On questions about how to act, what your symptoms are, and whether and how it should be treated – inform yourselves only from relevant sources.
This is a period filled with emotions and uncertainty. Each person experiences differently such difficult circumstances. Besides all, we have to be careful when posting on social networks. In this case we would like to believe that the posting of this photo is an unintentional mistake made with the best intention. However, sometimes such announcements can cause confusion and mixed feelings in the general public. At times like this, it’s the last thing we need. Individual posts are often misused for propaganda purposes, therefore check before sharing!
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This project was funded in part through a U.S. Embassy grant. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed herein are those of the implementers/authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Government.
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