Doctors cop threats and trolling after comments on COVID-19
Even colleagues can act like 'schoolyard bullies', say those hit by abuse and threats after speaking to the media
Death threats, “extraordinary personal attacks” and online abuse are a common experience for the doctors and COVID-19 experts who speak to the media about the pandemic.
Not only do they face trolling and threats from the public, but also from other doctors and colleagues, according to several high profile COVID-19 commentators.
Almost a quarter of the 50 experts included in an informal survey say they have experienced a death threat (12%) or a threat of physical or sexual violence (12%) after speaking to the media about the coronavirus.
Over half (31 out of 50) report being trolled following a media appearance, but “saddest” of all is when other doctors and academics behave like “schoolyard bullies”.
