Misinformation: an empirical study with scientists and communicators during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objectives: To study the experiences and views within the health science community regarding the spread and prevention of science misinformation within and beyond the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: An exploratory study with an empirical ethics approach using qualitative interviews with Australians who produce, communicate and study health science research.

Results: Key elements that participants considered might facilitate misinformation included: the production of low-quality, fraudulent or biased science research; inadequate public access to high-quality research; insufficient public reading of high-quality research.