The 2020s
COVID myths, AI content, and pandemic-era misinformation.
What you were taught
COVID-19 primarily spreads through contaminated surfaces (fomites)
What we know now
Research has shown that airborne transmission via respiratory droplets and aerosols is the main route of COVID-19 spread, not surfaces.
Updated understanding emerged around 2021
What you were taught
AI-generated content is easily distinguishable from human-created content
What we know now
By the early 2020s, AI-generated text, images, and even videos became nearly indistinguishable from human-created content, challenging detection methods.
Updated understanding emerged around 2023
What you were taught
COVID-19 vaccines cause cancer or more aggressive cancer
What we know now
This myth is false. Researchers have found no evidence linking COVID-19 vaccines to an increase in cancer rates or more aggressive forms of cancer. This misconception often arises from individual experiences or misinterpretations of data.
Updated understanding emerged around 2022
What you were taught
COVID-19 vaccines cause blood clots or increase stroke risk
What we know now
While rare side effects like specific blood clot disorders were linked to certain COVID-19 vaccines (e.g., Johnson & Johnson, which is no longer available in the U.S.), the vast majority of COVID-19 vaccines do not cause blood clots or increase stroke risk. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh these rare risks, and the risk of blood clots and heart problems is higher with COVID-19 infection itself.
Updated understanding emerged around 2022
What you were taught
COVID-19 vaccines alter your DNA
What we know now
This is a false claim. mRNA vaccines (like Pfizer and Moderna) deliver instructions to your cells to make a protein from the virus, triggering an immune response. The mRNA does not enter the nucleus of the cell where your DNA is stored and therefore cannot alter your DNA. The instructions are broken down and removed by the body.
Updated understanding emerged around 2021
What you were taught
Hot or cold temperatures prevent COVID-19
What we know now
This myth is false. The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads from person to person regardless of temperature. People in all climates, both hot and cold, have contracted COVID-19.
Updated understanding emerged around 2021
What you were taught
Dietary supplements or alcohol can prevent or treat COVID-19
What we know now
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that dietary supplements, specific foods (like hot peppers or garlic), or alcoholic beverages can prevent or treat COVID-19. Relying on such methods can be dangerous and delay appropriate medical care.
Updated understanding emerged around 2021