In an era defined by the frantic speed of social media, the line between urgent news and reckless misinformation has become dangerously thin. Recently, the South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) found itself at the center of a distressing digital storm after joining in the widespread false reports claiming the death of veteran actor and trade unionist, Kid Sithole. Acting with what many perceived as haste, the federation—led by Zwelinzima Vavi—issued an official statement of condolence, believing the rumors circulating online to be genuine. Like many other citizens who had been misled by the viral nature of the posts,…

In modern dermatology, we are increasingly witnessing a recurring scene: a patient arrives for a follow-up visit, clutching their phone to display a list of “unsafe” sunscreens generated by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Driven by genuine fear of ingredients labeled as “toxic” or “endocrine-disrupting,” patients are ditching clinically proven sunscreens in favor of viral DIY recipes like coconut oil and beeswax. While it is heartening that patients are taking an interest in their health, the disconnect between advocacy-driven hazard assessments and medical reality is putting lives at risk. When patients prioritize unproven digital headlines over the expertise…