The IDOM-H Framework: A Cross-Country Analysis of Disinformation Engagement and COVID-19 Public Health Trends

This study examines the impact of disinformation, specifically Plandemic, on public health responses within the context of COVID-19. The IDOM-H Framework integrates information economics, decision-making, and platform governance to examine how disinformation online affects epidemiological trends in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. A mixed-methods approach integrates official COVID-19 data with Facebook engagement and Google Trends. findings show a moderate and positive relationship (r = 0.62–0.63) between exposure to disinformation and total COVID-19 cases and deaths. While post-publication audience metrics increased, there was no significant association (p = 0.8021) between social media engagement and new daily cases. Subsequent research should utilize Granger causality and instrumental variable models to circumvent correlation limitations. Disinformation has no impact on case results but undermines public trust and causes long-term behavior modification. Targeted digital literacy and open platform governance are necessary to reduce long-term harm.

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