The erosion of local news, the polarization of national media, and the rising flood of misinformation continue to jeopardize public health and trust. In Information Sick, Joanne Kenen, Lymari Morales, and Joshua M. Sharfstein, MD, examine the dire consequences of a fractured information ecosystem, where misinformation spreads unchecked and undermines science, policy, and health.

The authors trace the decline of traditional news structures and the rise of new challenges, including the dangerous spread of disinformation on social media and the lack of accountability in digital spaces. These shifts have left communities uninformed about critical public health issues—from vaccination campaigns to climate change—while eroding confidence in the institutions meant to protect them. Yet Information Sick also offers a message of resilience and innovation. The authors highlight emerging media efforts that focus on public interest journalism, equitable reporting, and sustainable business models. From nonprofit newsrooms to an information playbook for public health, these examples show how the information ecosystem can be rebuilt to support a healthier society.

Information Sick equips listeners with tools to navigate the modern information landscape and take meaningful steps to counter misinformation and strengthen public health communication.

The book is published by Johns Hopkins University Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.