The infodemic — and the scientists fighting against it | Jessica Malaty Rivera

Jessica Malaty Rivera discusses the dual crisis faced during public health emergencies: the actual pathogen outbreak and the spread of misinformation—the 'infodemic.' She emphasizes that misinformation is not neutral and often accelerates harm, making it crucial to address both outbreaks simultaneously. The challenge lies in making visible the often-invisible successes of public health interventions, which tend to go unnoticed when they work effectively.

Rivera reflects on the importance of courageous leadership, especially in times when science is questioned or attacked. She advocates for making science accessible and understandable through effective communication and storytelling. She stresses the significance of earning trust through transparency, humility, and community engagement, rather than merely demanding it from the public. Her approach involves connecting with lawmakers, advocacy groups, and individuals to build trust and counteract misinformation.

The conversation highlights the role of storytelling in making scientific data relatable and impactful. Rivera shares her personal experiences, including parenting and her background, as tools to humanize the scientific message. She underscores that anecdotes can influence decision-making and that sharing personal stories helps bridge the gap between scientists and the public, fostering trust and understanding.

Rivera emphasizes that trust is easier to break than to rebuild, especially after recent crises and misinformation waves. She advocates for transparency, exposing the scientific process, and acknowledging uncertainty as integral parts of science. Rivera suggests a multidisciplinary approach involving social scientists, psychologists, and policymakers to restore confidence. She also discusses the importance of consistent, honest communication and the need for a long-term strategy to repair trust.

Rivera is optimistic about the future, emphasizing the importance of training a new generation of scientists who can effectively communicate. She advocates for scientists to become 'science sensemakers,' capable of translating complex ideas into accessible messages that can be repeated and understood by the general public. This approach is essential to combat misinformation and build a scientifically literate society.

Rivera shares her personal motivations, including her roles as a scientist, mother, and first-generation American, which fuel her dedication. Her experiences, such as witnessing hope and recovery in Rwanda post-genocide, reinforce her purpose—making complex issues understandable and advocating for justice and health equality. Her 'why' is rooted in a desire to make science meaningful and accessible for all.