The Robert Koch Institute (RKI): main building in Berlin. more
Germany’s Public Health institute RKI monitors the population’s health and wellbeing. more
The Robert Koch Institute is the German government's central institution for the identification, surveillance and prevention of infectious diseases in the Portfolio of the German Ministry of Health. more
Misinformation has always existed. However, especially nowadays – in the age of the internet and rapid information dissemination – it is difficult to contain incorrect information once they are out in the world. There is a multitude of misinformation circulating, particularly on the subject of vaccination. Individuals who are already sceptical about vaccination or are still undecided can be further unsettled by false information. Medical staff play an important role in engaging with concerned patients and addressing their questions about vaccinations.
The Robert Koch Institute has developed so-called “truth sandwiches” on some commonly occurring misinformation about vaccinations to support the medical fraternity concerning vaccinating patients.
First of all, the fact is stated, then the misinformation is identified as such and subsequently explained where the misinformation comes from and why it is incorrect information. Finally, the fact is repeated (according to Lewandowski et al. 2020. The Debunking Handbook. DOI: 10.17910/b7.1182. Available here).
Truth sandwiches can be used during the patient consultation to clarify common misinformation about vaccination. The collection is continually being expanded.
A more comprehensive compilation and debunking of misinformation about vaccination can be found at the Jitsuvax project.
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Fact: The protection offered by vaccines is good, but not 100%.
Myth: “Vaccines are pointless as they do not provide 100% protection.”
Date: 14.02.2024
