ITV’s Lorraine has been hit with over 1,300 Ofcom complaints after its on air segment about unvaccinated people in hospitals.
The media regulator, which handles complaints about radio and TV shows in Britain, received a total of 1,312 complaints from upset viewers after the broadcast.
The Covid-related chat, which aired on December 6, saw the show’s health pundit Dr Hilary claim that 90% of people in hospital are unvaccinated.
Discussing the reason for the complaints, Ofcom revealed: “related to a discussion about the number of unvaccinated people in hospital”.
(Image: ITV)
Speaking on the show, Dr Hilary said: “Those people who haven’t been vaccinated, we’d really love you to think again and be vaccinated.
Lorraine replied: “That’s a figure that we have to really concentrate on, 90% of people in hospital have not been vaccinated.”
Some ITV viewers were fuming at the discussion, with many taking issue at what they claimed were factually incorrect figures on Twitter.
One user wrote: “A figure to focus on because its factually incorrect from @DrHilaryJones. “36% of Covid patients in hospital unvaccinated not 90%”
They then attached data from the UK Health Security Agency, stating that it publishes weekly vaccination statuses of cases, admissions and deaths.
A second viewer threatened to complain to Ofcom as they said: “Assume @DrHilaryJones will be retracting that statement on tomorrow’s TV? Or do we need to put in an Ofcom complaint about it being misleading?”
Another user wrote: “So the big question is, why are these people on TV and in the media continually lying?”
(Image: ITV)
However, Lorraine issued an update on the figures as she said: “Dr Hilary said that 90% of patients with Covid in hospital were unvaccinated.
“We should say that this is 90% of people who are very seriously ill and are receiving the most specialist care.”
Spandau Ballet star Martin Kemp also appeared on Lorraine’s show, repeating the same figure of 90% for unvaccinated people in hospitals as he urged people take get jabbed.
The guitarist starred in a campaign video which saw him dress up as Father Christmas in a bid to encourage the public to get vaccinated against Covid this winter.
(Image: PA)
During the advert, he said: “We all know the run-up to Christmas can be one of the busiest times of the year – buying presents, decorating the tree, eating mince pies with family and friends.
“I can’t stress enough how important it is to tick your Covid-19 booster or flu jab off your ‘to do’ list this festive season, among all your other preparations, to ensure that you can enjoy Christmas with your loved ones.
“It’s quick and easy and will keep us all protected as best as possible this winter. Now go book your jabs – Father Christmas said so!”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
