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WHO warns against misinformation about Coronavirus

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Bianca Rahimi 
Press TV, London

As the death toll rises from the coronavirus panic is setting in around the globe. China, the epicenter of the new virus, is working around the clock to contain it and medical professionals are being called upon to advise people on how to protect themselves.

Some would say the advice has been underwhelming though. The World Health Organization says wash your hands often and do it properly. But don’t people already do that?

But it’s not soap that’s selling out, its facemasks. New and improved facemasks guaranteeing full protection are hitting the market and selling out fast as businesses cash in on the hype. Apparently Nano Tech Face Masks are selling out fast in the UK and in places like Cornwall there isn’t a mask to be found at the pharmacy. Two teenagers have made £10,000 in one week reselling facemarks they bought for 17p for £8 online. Health experts say people's concern is completely understandable, but ultimately unwarranted.

Social media is exploding with information and misinformation about the virus. WHO has repeatedly warned against rampant misinformation online and at least 16 people have been arrested over erroneous posts in Malaysia, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Hong Kong. An estimated 56,000 people die from the flu or flu-like illness each year. This year 10,000 have died in the US alone.


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