Mythbusters: Do 5G mobile networks spread COVID-19?

As technology advances, many companies have started rolling out 5G mobile technology. You’ve probably heard the commercials and may have also heard the latest conspiracy theories regarding 5G networks. One of the most recent theories to emerge is that 5G is responsible for the swift spread of SARS-CoV-2 across the globe.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), viruses cannot travel on radio waves or mobile networks. It’s worthy to note that COVID-19 is spreading in many countries that do not have 5G mobile networks.

Where did this rumor come from?

Some people claim that 5G helps viruses communicate, often citing a paper from 2011. In this study, the authors conclude that bacteria can communicate via electromagnetic signals. However, experts dispute this theory, and SARS-CoV-2 is a virus, not a bacterium.

Wuhan was one of the first cities to trial 5G in China, which may explain the origin of some of these theories.

Only the facts

The WHO says COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People can also be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth or nose.

For more information on COVID-19 please visit WHO website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).