Greece’s National Public Health Organization (EODY) is establishing a new unit to identify and counter fake news related to health, Deputy Health Minister Eirini Agapidaki announced this week. The initiative aims to combat the growing spread of misinformation on vaccines, prevention, and public health measures, an issue officials now describe as a “pandemic of fake news.”
The new EODY Office for Detecting and Combating Fake News on Public Health Issues will monitor, evaluate, and scientifically debunk false claims circulating online and in the media. In addition, EODY will publish a weekly bulletin on health misinformation, distributed alongside its regular public health report to journalists, doctors, pharmacists, and the public.
Agapidaki has said the goal is to protect citizens by providing accurate, science-based communication and rebuilding trust in public health institutions. “According to the World Health Organization, we are facing a new pandemic—the pandemic of fake news,” she noted. “People are tired and often confused. It is our duty to restore trust in science and support citizens with reliable information.”
Patient association praises initiative
The Hellenic Patients’ Association welcomed the Ministry of Health’s decision, calling it “a positive step toward strengthening evidence-based information and safeguarding public health.”
The group emphasized that misinformation, especially around vaccination and preventive care, poses serious risks to society and undermines confidence in medical science. “Fighting misinformation is a top priority for us, as it is directly linked to improving citizens’ health literacy,” the association said.
Low health literacy highlights the challenge
A 2022 study by the Institute of Health Policy for the Hellenic Patients’ Association revealed significant gaps in how Greek citizens assess the reliability and usefulness of health information. The study highlights several key areas where health literacy is particularly low among Greek citizens:
- 1 in 3 respondents said they struggle to understand why vaccines and preventive tests are necessary.
- Nearly half admitted they cannot easily determine whether health information in the media is trustworthy.
- Many also find it difficult to evaluate advice related to health risks, such as smoking, diet, or exercise, or to decide whether to follow recommendations from friends or social media.
“These findings underline the urgent need for targeted initiatives that strengthen citizens’ ability to recognize credible information,” the Association stated, adding that improving health literacy is essential to effectively combat misinformation and promote public well-being.
Fighting fake news in Greece through knowledge
Agapidaki concluded that health literacy is more than just information—it is a skill. “It’s the ability to understand, evaluate, and use health knowledge to improve our lives. That requires trust, relationships, and continuous education,” she said, highlighting the vital role of pharmacists and health professionals in educating the public.
The establishment of the new EODY unit marks a significant move toward transparency, evidence-based communication, and public empowerment in Greece’s ongoing effort to protect citizens from the dangers of misinformation.
