Online conspiracy theories linking 5G wireless service to the rapid spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has been clarified by many experts as untrue.
Experts have also explained that rumours and theories, that viruses can communicate through radio waves is not backed up by evidence.
Hence, major social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube are moving to limit the spread of false coronavirus 5G theories.
Statements from the World Health Organization (WHO), GSMA, Full Fact and some media reports have also debunked the rumours, labelling them as falsehood.
The World Health Organization says no research has linked exposure to wireless technology with negative health effects with Reuters adding, “there is no scientific evidence to connect mobile communication networks with the SARS, swine flu and coronavirus outbreaks. Although 3G, 4G and 5G were unrolled at similar dates to the SARS, swine flu and new coronavirus outbreaks, their start dates do not match. Many countries without 5G infrastructure have reported coronavirus cases such as Latin America and Africa.”
Instructively, the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSMA) has also condemned attacks on telephone masts and other vital telecommunication infrastructure in the UK.
GSMA states in a recent press release that “England’s National Medical Director Stephen Powis has been widely reported in the media as saying, ‘The 5G story is complete and utter rubbish, it’s nonsense, it’s the worst kind of fake news.’”
Meanwhile, Mats Granryd, Director General of the GSMA, says “The telecoms industry is working around the clock to keep vital health, education and emergency services online, businesses running, and friends and families connected. It is deplorable that critical communications infrastructure is being attacked based on outright mistruths.”
He urged everyone to trust health authorities and rest assured communications technology is safe, adding, “there is no link between 5G and COVID-19. It’s fake news.”