JOHANNESBURG, April 30 (Xinhua) - In response to rumors of a "fatal new variant of COVID-19" appearing in South Africa, Foster Mohale, a spokesperson for the South African Health Department, stated on April 30 that the rumors are entirely false. South Africa has not identified any so-called "fatal" new variants of the COVID-19 virus, and the public need not panic about these rumors.
Recently, there were rumors suggesting that following the XBB.1.5 subvariant of the COVID-19 virus, there is currently a new variant in South Africa that is fatal and has high immune escape capabilities. This rumor has caused social panic in South Africa, with many people starting to stockpile masks and essential supplies.
Mohale expressed concern about the spread of these rumors. On one hand, the severity and transmissibility of the current COVID-19 strains in South Africa are low. On the other hand, investigations by the South African Health Department have shown that there is no new fatal variant of the COVID-19 virus. Furthermore, Mohale emphasized that since a majority of South Africans have developed some level of immunity to the virus through vaccination or prior infection, there is no need to excessively fear these rumors.
Mohale stated that the South African Health Department urges the public to remain vigilant and not pay attention to such unfounded rumors, as these false claims can easily lead to unnecessary panic and confusion as the country approaches flu season. He pointed out that the Health Department is closely monitoring various viruses of concern to the public, and if there is any outbreak of a virus or disease leading to a surge in confirmed cases, the department will promptly release the latest information to the public to prevent further spread of the epidemic. (End)
