How swamped preprint servers are blocking bad coronavirus research

How swamped preprint servers are blocking bad coronavirus research

Swamped preprint servers block bad science

Preprint servers, where scientists post manuscripts before peer review, have been flooded with coronavirus research: bioRxiv and medRxiv have posted nearly 3,000 such studies between them. The servers are walking a tightrope between quickly disseminating coronavirus science and avoiding poorly conducted research that could fuel misinformation and conspiracy theories. They have enhanced their usual screening procedures to look even more carefully for claims that might cause harm, and are flagging papers that might contradict widely accepted public-health advice or inappropriately use causal language in reporting on a medical treatment.

Nature | 6 min read