The epidemics of emotions and of misinformation intersect in worrisome ways with the underlying epidemic of the pathogen itself. And this in turn highlights once again the crucial role of public education during the time of a pandemic. Even though the science might be tenuous and findings can change given new observations, officials can and should be both sensitive and honest. It’s of course acceptable for officials to change their minds and update or even reverse prior advice. But we can reduce cynicism and strengthen collective will if the reasons for such changes are offered, and the
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