SA government issues warning over fake news about Covid-19 variant

The South African government issued a fake news alert about a supposed new Covid-19 variant.

Using social media, officials warned citizens by posting the image with a bold red “fake” label across it.

FAKE POST CLAIMS VIRUS IS DEADLY

A post that has been widely shared across social media suggests a Covid-Omicron XBB is contagious, violent and deadly.

The post reads: “Several patients diagnosed with Covid Omicron XBB were finally classified as having no fever, no pain, but X-ray results showed mild chest pneumonia. Nasal swab tests frequently provide negative results for Covid-Omicron XBB, and cases of nasopharyngeal tests providing false negative results are increasing.”

The post also claimed that the virus spreads easily and attacks the lungs, leading to viral pneumonia and potentially causing acute respiratory distress.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health shared that South Africa is closely monitoring the emergence of a new Covid-19 variant, known as Nimbus or NB.1.8.1.

GOVERNMENT WARNS FAKE NEWS CAN LEAD TO PROSECUTION

The government previously warned that anyone who created or spreads fake news about Covid-19 is liable for prosecution. They also warned that information should be verified before it is shared.