This article highlights the importance of appropriate and timely information to mitigate and cure COVID-19.

By reviewing Chinese newspapers, social media, and other digital platform data, the authors conclude that China had an initial delay in responding to the COVID-19 outbreak, but its strong governance, strict regulation, high citizen participation, and wise use of digital technologies were key factors in effective efforts to combat the virus. Underlying all of these strategies is the importance of timely and appropriate communication. Fake news must be reduced in this information age, especially via social media. Although different countries will need different approaches, two critical factors for global mitigation efforts include focusing on its humanitarian nature and addressing infodemic issues.