They used the two keys to manipulate people: fear and ignorance.
People are, generally, very risk adverse; doubly so for their kids and parents. What is a better means to induce fear than about health? Especially over something "novel" and of which they know nothing and can understand nothing about. Of course, in order to combat fear we apply the antidotes of knowledge and wisdom. So subvert the knowledge and wisdom of people.
The Weapons Used
They used the two keys to manipulate people: fear and ignorance.
People are, generally, very risk adverse; doubly so for their kids and parents. What is a better means to induce fear than about health? Especially over something "novel" and of which they know nothing and can understand nothing about. Of course, in order to combat fear we apply the antidotes of knowledge and wisdom. So subvert the knowledge and wisdom of people.