The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Friday that all hypotheses regarding the genesis of the Covid-19 pandemic remain open, following a four-year investigation that yielded inconclusive results due to the withholding of crucial information.
The global catastrophe, which began with initial cases detected in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, is estimated by the WHO to have claimed 20 million lives worldwide. Beyond the tragic human cost, the pandemic devastated economies, crippled health systems, and profoundly disrupted countless lives. Understanding the origin of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes Covid-19, is considered vital for preventing future pandemics.
However, a comprehensive investigation launched by the UN’s health agency has concluded that, pending the availability of further data, the precise origin of Covid-19 and its initial spread remain elusive.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated at a press conference, “As things stand, all hypotheses must remain on the table, including zoonotic spillover and lab leak,” referring to the two primary theories on how the pandemic began. He emphasized that despite extensive efforts, critical information necessary to fully evaluate all possibilities has not been provided, particularly from China. The WHO continues to appeal to all countries with relevant information to share it transparently to protect the world from future outbreaks.
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