In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, Google has found several ways to help people learn about the vaccine, in addition to receiving one. This isn’t the first step Google has taken in order to combat the coronavirus outbreak. For example, last year, Google was part of an initiative with Facebook and Twitter dedicated to fighting coronavirus vaccine misinformation.
Along with combating false information online, Google worked with Apple to create the Exposure Notification Express, a feature which can tell users if someone around them has tested positive for COVID-19. In spite of the attempts by Google and others, rumors and inaccurate news have still circulated online, including a recent conspiracy theory connecting 5G and the vaccine. Misinformation has likely also led to some of the skepticism surrounding taking the vaccination with even notable individuals having suggested they won't be getting one. Even before the vaccine was made available, Elon Musk opted out.
In a blog post, Google CEO Sundar Pichal explained how the company is focused on providing equitable access. In other words, helping those in underserved communities gain an equal chance at getting the vaccine. The posting also explains how Google has provided over $150 million to various organizations dedicated to fighting the pandemic, with $100 million having gone to the CDC Foundation, the World Health Organization, and other nonprofits. The additional $50 million has gone to public health agencies in communities that need help receiving vaccine-related information. Google is also working with organizations like the Satcher Health Leadership Institute to help with racial and geographic disparities.
How Google Search & Maps Are Helping
Google is also continuing the fight to bring authoritative information on the vaccine to light, including showcasing vaccination locations on Google Maps, as well as showing state and regional distribution information directly in Search. This will include a “Where To Get” tab that lists nearby locations where the vaccine is available. To begin with, this information will go live in Arizona, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.
Furthermore, Google has offered the use of select company facilities as vaccination clinics, including parking lots and other open spaces. Sites will first open in L.A., the San Francisco Bay Area, New York City and Kirkland, Washington, with plans to expand nationally in due course. Finally, Google Cloud will also be helping with distributing the vaccine, from trucks using the AI to navigate traffic to facilitating scheduling once the vaccine arrives at clinics.
Source: The Keyword