COVID-19 and 'immune boosting' on the internet: a content analysis of Google search results.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The spread of misinformation has accompanied the coronavirus pandemic, including topics such as immune boosting to prevent COVID-19. This study explores how immune boosting is portrayed on the internet during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

Content analysis.

Methods

We compiled a dataset of 227 webpages from Google searches in Canada and the USA using the phrase 'boost immunity' AND 'coronavirus' on 1 April 2020. We coded webpages for typology and portrayal of immune boosting and supplements. We recorded mentions of microbiome, whether the webpage was selling or advertising an immune boosting product or service, and suggested strategies for boosting immunity.

Results

No significant differences were found between webpages that appeared in the searches in

SUBMITTER: Rachul C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7592272 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature