The Ministry of Health has dismissed speculations of lockdown after a COVID-19 Hour image was circulated online. The poster claims that the event is taking place today (16th March 2020) between 8pm to 10pm and urged everyone to stay at home.
The post also urged people not to go out to public spaces and to pray at home. It also ends with the hashtag #socialdistance. The Ministry has emphasised that COVID-19 Hour is fake news and it is nothing but a hoax. The general public is advised not to share the image.
Although a lockdown is said by some as a good move to contain the disease, the Ministry of Health has clarified that it isn’t suitable at the moment as it can cause unnecessary panic.
The Health Minister Dr. Adham Baba has said that the government will be having a special COVID-19 meeting today to discuss the next course of action to contain the outbreak. As of yesterday, there are 190 new cases reported in a single day which bring the total of cases to 428.
Meanwhile, the MCMC has warned netizens to think twice before sharing unverified news. Those found to spread misinformation will have their devices seized and can be charged under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and under Section 505 of the Penal Code. If you’re not sure, you are advised not to share.
