WhatsApp Announces Dedicated Coronavirus Information Hub to Provide Information, Advice

WhatsApp detailed two initiatives Wednesday aimed at helping its users cope with the coronavirus pandemic: the WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Hub, and a $1 million USD donation to the Poynter Institute’s International Fact-Checking Network.

According to a new report from TechCrunch, WhatsApp has launched a new coronavirus hub to help provide people with simple, factual information and advice regarding the coronavirus outbreak, providing tips on how best to use the messaging app during the pandemic by focusing primarily on helping prevent the spread of unsubstantiated rumours.

The hub includes specific advice for a number of different groups, explaining how WhatsApp can be used to inform and communicate with communities.

Health care professionals, educators, nonprofits, local government and local businesses are all singled out for attention. WhatsApp is working with WHO and UNICEF to provide messaging hotlines. Over time, the portal will be used to share details of these helpful numbers.



WhatsApp also shares heartwarming stories from the world showing how people in different countries are using the messaging tool to overcome some of the difficulties coronavirus has introduced into their daily lives.

The hub is online now, and all its content is available for free.

In addition to the information hub, WhatsApp also announced a donation of $1 million USD to the Poynter Institute’s International Fact-Checking Network, a watchdog that supports fact-checking for the #CoronaVirusFacts Alliance, which spans more than 100 local organizations in at least 45 countries.