Anti-vaccine (anti-vaxx) groups continue to rise in numbers on social media despite new calls to block such accounts. The content of these accounts consists of content that actively discourages the taking of vaccines. In a crucial time like now, where the new Coronavirus vaccine is being rolled out, this content can prove harmful to the uptake of the jab.

The Centre for Countering Digital Hate is the leader behind calls to remove such accounts. They said the agenda of anti-vaxxers is ‘harmful’ as they are against the taking of the Covid vaccine. Head of Research at the center, Callum Hood, says these types of posts could appear in anyone’s feed indicating the easy yet subtle infiltration of such damaging content.

Callum gives helpful advice on how to help people who may fall victim to such content.

The Center for Countering Digital Hate recently did an in-depth investigation into anti-vaxxers by attending a conference undercover. The report found: “The global scientific consensus on vaccines is being undermined by a small but determined and sophisticated network of individuals and groups spreading misinformation online.

“They have improved their reach and sustainability through skillful exploitation of social media to proselytize and normalize their fringe beliefs.”

Callum explained that anti-vaxxers are using their growing influence to manipulate their audiences into believing false medical information, putting their health in great danger. He said that the group were usually against lockdowns, track and tace and wearing masks.

He continued: “It all seems quite deliberate to sort of puff themselves up as the alternative authority on this.”

It is undeniable the harm this content could cause, but Callum says that the true effect on the uptake of the vaccine will only be apparent once the vaccine rollout is increased.

The content produced by such accounts can be portrayed as scientific facts or as common knowledge. Another technique used by those who perpetuate this kind of information is to play into people’s fears. For example, a recent anti-vaxx rumour circulating on social media targets ethnic communities, specifically those in the Muslim community saying the vaccine isn’t halal. Imams at mosques have tried to debunk this myth by holding prayers and sermons to spread reassurance that the vaccine is safe.

Paul Singh once believed the content he saw on social media that discouraged taking the vaccine. He saw a widely shared video that claimed the vaccine contained a microchip designed by Microsoft Co-founder Bill Gates as a way of tracking the population. He talked to Invicta News about how he fell into the trap and how he saw the truth soon after. Hear his full interview here:

The NHS and the UK government recommend taking the vaccine when it is offered to you. Find out more about the vaccine here.