5G networks caused the novel coronavirus outbreak.

5G networks have no causal connection to COVID-19, contrary to rumours on social media.

The conspiracy theory that 5G networks caused COVID-19 emerged on social media by drawing links to the coronavirus that reportedly originated in China's Wuhan province in December 2019 and the 5G network launched by China in November 2019.

Viruses, not radio waves caused COVID-19, thereby proving this theory wrong. Dr Jonathan M Samet, a professor at the Colorado School of Public Health confirmed that the story had no credence scientifically and that it was a potential distraction from controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. The NHS England Medical Director has also termed it as fake news.

The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a lot of potentially dangerous misinformation. For reliable advice on COVID-19 including symptoms, prevention and available treatment, please refer to the World Health Organisation or your national healthcare authority.