Health Dept says there's 'no need to panic' as fake COVID-19 news circulates

Mandy Wiener receives a voice note from Foster Mohale, Spokesperson of the National Department of Health about the latest COVID-19 fake news.

Listen below (skip to 28:04).

The Department of Health has expressed concern over an outdated piece of false information regarding the COVID-19 Omicron XBB variant making rounds on social media.

The misinformation advises individuals to wear face masks due to an alleged highly lethal and difficult-to-detect variant.

In a press release, they emphasised that there is no need for the public to panic, as many individuals have developed some level of immunity from both vaccination and prior infections.

The current strain or variant in circulation is reported to be less severe and less transmissible.

The Department has urged the public to remain vigilant and disregard such malicious social media content which aims to instigate unnecessary panic and confusion, particularly with the onset of the influenza season in the country.

They have reassured the public that they will provide timely updates in the event of a surge in illness cases caused by any concerning virus or disease outbreak.

"There is no need for the public to panic."

- Foster Mohale, Spokesperson – National Department of Health

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.