How Mpox anti-vaxx conspiracies target and stigmatise LGBTQ+ people
October 14, 2024
Conspiracy theories about mpox are proliferating on alternative social media platforms, labeling it a "scamdemic" and targeting LGBTQ+ communities. These uncensored networks host claims linking mpox vaccines to heart attacks and death. Research shows that platforms like Gab have become hubs for right-wing content creators spreading mpox misinformation. Conspiracies often stigmatize gay and bisexual men, echoing historical prejudices seen during the HIV/AIDS crisis. Some theories promote dangerous ideas about "vaccine shedding" and portray LGBTQ+ individuals as threats. This spread of misinformation combines anti-vaccination sentiments with homophobic narratives, perpetuating harmful stigmas.
Mpox has become the latest target of conspiracy theorists and misinformation spreaders, particularly on alternative social media platforms with minimal content moderation. Research into anti-vaccination misinformation has revealed a concerning trend of mpox-related conspiracy theories flourishing on platforms like Telegram, Substack, and Gab.
Key aspects of mpox misinformation include:
1. "Scamdemic" Claims: Some theorists label mpox as another fabricated pandemic, created by elites to control populations and profit pharmaceutical companies.
2. Vaccine Fearmongering: False claims link mpox vaccines to heart attacks and death, discouraging vaccination efforts.
3. LGBTQ+ Targeting: Many conspiracy theories specifically target and stigmatize LGBTQ+ communities, especially gay and bisexual men.
4. Platform Shift: With increased moderation on mainstream social media, many "alt-right" content creators have moved to less restricted platforms like Gab.
5. Historical Echoes: The stigmatization of LGBTQ+ individuals in mpox narratives mirrors the prejudices seen during the HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s and 1990s.
6. "Vaccine Shedding" Myths: Some theories promote the false idea that vaccinated individuals can harm others through contact, further stigmatizing the LGBTQ+ community.
7. Moral Judgments: Mpox is often characterized as a disease of "immoral" people, leading to callous and discriminatory attitudes.
8. Dangerous Narratives: Some content creators portray LGBTQ+ individuals as threats to children and society, promoting harmful stereotypes.
The spread of this misinformation is particularly concerning as it combines anti-vaccination sentiments with homophobic narratives. This intersection of conspiracy theories and prejudice can have real-world consequences, potentially impacting public health efforts to control mpox and exacerbating discrimination against LGBTQ+ communities.
Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, including improved content moderation, public health education, and efforts to combat stigma and discrimination. It also highlights the ongoing challenge of managing misinformation in the age of social media, especially on platforms that prioritize unrestricted speech over factual accuracy.