Chinese govt reprimanded doctor who warned about coronavirus for ‘spreading rumours’

Tribune Web Desk
Chandigarh, January 4

A Chinese doctor had tried to warn about a ‘SARS-type’ virus in December only to be forced by the government to sign a letter saying he was “severely disturbing the social order”.

According to BBC, Dr Li Wenliang thought he had identified a condition akin to SARS, the virus that had caused an epidemic in 2003. The patients he identified were believed to have been at a seafood market in Wuhan at some point.

Wenliang attempted to inform fellow doctors about the possible outbreak, asking them to exercise caution and wear protective gear while treating patients.

The Chinese Public Security Bureau, however, made Wenliang sign a letter that claimed he was disturbing social order and spreading “false rumours.”

As China finally admitted to the coronavirus in January, after trying to remain tight-lipped about the outbreak for some time, government authorities apologized to the doctor.

According to BBC, Wenliang and his parents too got infected by the virus which has killed 425 people so far.

Wenliang is now being hailed as a hero who contributed to ensuring public safety.