MOHW says WhatsApp message about new COVID variant is fake
KINGSTON, Jamaica— The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) on Tuesday issued a warning that a message being circulated on WhatsApp and social media about a new COVID variant called COVID-Omicron XBB is fake.
The fake message advises that this new variant is “five times more virulent than the Delta variant and has a higher mortality rate…”
The now-viral message went on to add that no cough or fever accompanies the new variant, and listed symptoms of joint pain, headache, pain in the neck, and upper back, as well as pneumonia and a loss of appetite.
“Please note that this message circulating via WhatsApp and on social media is NOT from the Ministry of Health & Wellness Jamaica. #fakenews #COVID19,” MOHW warned in a post on its Twitter page.
The MOHW further advised that official notices about COVID-19 can be found on its social media pages and the website.
