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Politics has become a key driver of misinformation.
Misinformation on vaccines and health issues is spreading faster than official advice, eroding public trust in hospitals and health agencies, according to Ipsos, Inc.
In an October report, the market research firm said the politicisation of public health has become a major driver of misinformation. It cited recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, who falsely linked vaccines and Tylenol to autism and appointed vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. as Health Secretary.
The US has since recorded its worst measles resurgence since 2000, with more than 1,500 confirmed cases and 40 outbreaks this year. Vaccination coverage among kindergarteners dropped to 92.5%, below the 95% threshold needed for herd immunity.
Ipsos said similar trust issues have spread across the Asia-Pacific region. Childhood vaccination coverage in Australia has slipped below national targets, whilst Türkiye posted the sharpest decline in support for mandatory vaccines since 2018. Japan had the lowest support globally, with only 37% backing compulsory immunisation.
Doctors remain the most trusted professionals, but their influence is weakening as more people turn to online sources. About 68% of respondents said they prefer researching symptoms themselves rather than fully relying on physicians.
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