In South Asia the reported number of flu-related deaths is negligible or so, the proponents of these theories maintain. The virus is new and in the presence of an inadequate healthcare system, the reporting mechanism remains deeply untrustworthy. What has ensued is an unending series of unsubstantiated claims and conspiracy theories. I hope I have already made it clear how devastating the effects of such unsubstantiated claims can be. But if we are reckless with facts, spread unsubstantiated theories and disinformation on purpose in pursuit of our narrow and short-sighted personal interests, we may end up jeopardising more lives than we can think of.

Source: The Express Tribune May 09, 2020 05:03 UTC