SA government warns against fake news on Covid-19 variant
The Government has sounded the alarm for a fake news alert regarding a new Covid-19 variant.
Taking to social media, the South African government warned citizens of the false post, by sharing the picture with a huge red fake 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 suggested that the virus can be easily and affect lungs, causing viral pneumonia, which can cause acute respiratory stress.
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.
The government previously warned that anyone who creates or spreads fake news about the Coronavirus Covid-19 is liable for prosecution. They also warned that information should be verified before it is shared. You can report fake news through the Real411 website: www.real411.org. HAVE YOU EVER FALLEN FOR A FAKE NEWS STORY?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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