Information is critical to a free society but misinformation, when spread rapidly, can also have dire consequences. The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been deadly but the effects of media-induced hysteria surrounding it, in some respects, has been even more devastating - especially to the tourism sector which is vital to the Italian economy. However, the fact remains, Rome, as a destination, is safe and remains open for business.

Rome mayor Virginia Raggi and Lazio Region president Nicola Zingaretti have both stressed the fact that there is no Coronavirus emergency in the capital city of Italy. Yet the sharp rise in tourist cancellations and drop in bookings has occurred - despite the fact that there is no Coronavirus emergency in Rome according to Raggi.