3 hr 21 min ago
Scientists slam conspiracy theories about novel coronavirus origins
From CNN Health’s Michael Nedelman
Scientists around the world are slamming and debunking conspiracy theories that the novel coronavirus has its origins not in animals, but in a Chinese laboratory, according to a statement published Wednesday in the medical journal The Lancet.
"We stand together to strongly condemn conspiracy theories suggesting that COVID-19 does not have a natural origin,” wrote the 27 authors, citing studies from scientists in multiple countries that have analyzed the virus’ genetic makeup.
These studies "overwhelmingly conclude that this coronavirus originated in wildlife, as have so many other emerging pathogens.”
A security guard stands outside the Huanan Seafood Wholesale Market in Wuhan on January 24. Chinese health authorities closed the market after it was discovered that wild animals sold there may be the source of the virus. Credit: Hector Retamal/AFP/Getty Images
CNN previously reported statements by Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas this week on Fox News, who said “this virus did not originate in the Wuhan animal market” and implied it may have started in a laboratory not far away.
"We don't have evidence that this disease originated there ... but we at least have to ask the question,” Cotton said.
In the newly published statement, the scientists said:
“Conspiracy theories do nothing but create fear, rumours, and prejudice that jeopardise our global collaboration in the fight against this virus."