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Updated: May 29, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancements in Multiplex Detection of Respiratory Viruses
Published on: November 10, 2023
The language we speak amid COVID-19.
Zhaohui Su1, Francis Mungai Kaburu1, Abdulswabul Kudiza1
1School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China.
Using discriminatory language like "Chinese virus" during pandemics harms international cooperation and public mental health. We urge a shift to neutral terms to better focus on controlling disease transmission.
Area of Science:
- Linguistics
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Language shapes perception and influences societal responses to crises.
- The use of stigmatizing terms during health emergencies can have detrimental effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of specific language used during pandemics.
- To advocate for the cessation of discriminatory terminology in public health communication.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of media and governmental language during recent pandemics.
- Review of psychological and sociological impacts of stigmatizing labels.
Main Results:
- Terms like "UK variant" or "Chinese virus" foster division and distract from effective pandemic control.
- War metaphors and nationalistic labels negatively impact international collaboration and mental well-being.
Conclusions:
- Adopting neutral and scientifically accurate language is crucial for effective pandemic response.
- A call to action is issued for media, health experts, and officials to promote inclusive communication.
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