Why The Negative Bias?

There is something in the news media that has been obvious to me as a medical professional.  Why is so much of the recent news about the Wuhan coronavirus in regards to immunity is slanted negative?

Yes it is true that we simply don't know how long and how effective the immunity to COVID 19 will be in recovered individuals.  But it seems that the news media is trying to downplay the increasing immunity seen in the general population.  The media likes to question the effectiveness of the antibody response in recovered individuals, especially in relationship to some future immunization, yet doesn't put two-and-two together when they then report on the benefit of antibodies from recovered individuals in helping critically ill COVID19 patients. 

Why Are They So Negative?

I don't want to believe that there is a political purpose to this negative reporting.  I have my thoughts, but can't confirm that.  However the axiom "If it bleeds, it leads" that has been the mainstay of mainstream news for decades certainly plays a role.  Honestly reporting about the potential benefits of recovery and immunity in the population probably wouldn't get the same readership as casting doubt and panic by a contrary perspective with the same data.  So negative information, regardless if it is true or not, becomes headlines.  Facts replaced with fiction. No regard for the impact of those headlines.  Sensationalism for the purpose of capturing your attention.

Make The Switch To Hope

It's sad that there is a focus on negativity in the media, at a time when there is a need for hope.  Isn't hope better for everyone than despair?  It certainly is for mental health and likely for immunologic health too, though our mind-body connection.

Do you find yourself dwelling on the negative?  Are you a cheerleader for doom and gloom?  Are you buying into negative, and potentially false narratives? 

What benefit is that to you?

Maybe it's time to shed the influence of a negative bias in your life. It's time to create your own analysis of data in the news.  Look for the positive. Foster some hope. It's time to...

Look for the truth.

Decide the "facts" for yourself.

Lead your own decision process, don't just follow others.