Dr Talha Sami, a partner at Chiddingfold Surgery, has seen firsthand the impact of misinformation on public health, especially in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape. With 10 years of experience in the NHS and frequent contributions to BBC medical affairs, Dr Sami is all too aware of the dangers posed by alternative media and viral health myths.

In an age where information is abundant, misinformation often spreads quicker than a virus. Dr Sami warns of the impact such misinformation can have on public health.

He cites the wide reporting by many tabloids of "wonder" drugs that are not aligned with UK prescribing guidelines, meaning they actually cannot be prescribed in the UK.

Medical misinformation is not just a contemporary issue. Andrew Wakefield’s 1998 study falsely linking vaccinations to autism has led to generations of people believing they should not vaccinate their children.

“That one study, which has been debunked several times in reputable journals, has had a lasting impact,” said Dr Sami.

The highly publicised Strep A cases that led to fatalities also caused a medical crisis, but not for the reasons many assumed.

“It caused the greatest influx of appointments I have possibly ever seen. The clamour for appointments was one of the most overwhelming times we’ve experienced as doctors. In actuality, most children did quite well with basic home remedies of rest, painkillers, and fluids.”

So, what can be done to fight the spread of misinformation that can do more harm than some illnesses? Dr Sami advocates using reputable medical resources like the NHS website and Patient.co.uk.

“Knowledge is power,” he asserts, encouraging patients to seek trusted information online before rushing to their GP. This empowers individuals while easing the strain on healthcare services.

“As always, speak to your doctor if you have any concerns – after reading the relevant NHS material first!”