Stay clear of fake news and predictions on COVID-19: UAE government

The UAE government has once again highlighted the importance of staying clear of social media rumours and fake news linked to COVID-19.

During a media briefing on Saturday, officials urged residents not to circulate or blindly follow unofficial videos, tips and predictions being posted on online platforms.

They also reaffirmed that COVID-19 patients are discharged from hospitals only after ensuring that they have fully recovered.

Officials added that patients who showed no symptoms are usually referred to the quarantine centres or asked to undergo home quarantine.

"According to updated scientific studies, the incubation period of COVID-19 starts two days before symptoms appear and continues for a maximum of eight days. After that, the patient is unlikely to be infected," explained Dr. Farida Al Hosani, the spokesperson for the UAE health sector.