Through the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO), the EU supports a European network of fact-checkers, including TheJournal in Ireland. For a monthly roundup of European fact-checks, visit the main EDMO website. Here, we highlight recent fact-checks by TheJournal FactCheck team.
Debunked: There is no government scheme offering free cheese to recipients of a hantavirus vaccine
A fake news-style image claiming the government would give free cheese to people receiving a hantavirus vaccine spread widely across social media platforms. The fact-check found there is no such scheme, and noted that there are currently no hantavirus vaccines licensed for use in Europe or the Americas. Published: 16 May – by Shane Raymond.
Debunked: Posts misrepresent a routine honour given to the Iranian ambassador by the Vatican
Social media posts falsely suggested Pope Leo XIV had made a political statement by honouring Iran’s ambassador amid tensions with the United States. In reality, the award was part of a routine Vatican ceremony in which 13 ambassadors received the same diplomatic honour. Published: 17 May – by Shane Raymond.
