A false message attributed to the Ministry of Health, Singapore has been circulating on messaging platforms. It claimed that following an autopsy on a COVID-19 patient, Singapore discovered that COVID-19 does not exist as a virus, but instead as a “bacterium that has been exposed to radiation and causes human death by coagulation in the blood”.

The message also falsely claimed that the authorities had changed the treatment protocols for COVID-19, and instead gave aspirins to patients who tested positive for COVID-19.

The allegations are all false and the message did not originate from the Ministry of Health, Singapore. Earlier versions of this message, citing countries such as Italy and Russia instead of Singapore, have been exposed as untrue. Here are the facts:

Fact #1: Singapore did not perform such an autopsy on a COVID-19 patient nor made such claims about the pathophysiology of COVID-19 infection. There has also not been any such resultant change in our treatment protocols for COVID-19 patients.

Fact #2: COVID-19 is caused by a virus, not a bacterium.

Based on many scientific studies and current evidence, COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also previously debunked the myth that COVID-19 is caused by bacteria, not a virus.

Some people who are infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus may develop a bacterial infection as a complication – this is also seen in other viral illnesses such as influenza. In such cases, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Fact #3: COVID-19 cannot be cured with aspirin.

Aspirin has no direct effect on the virus that causes COVID-19. If you feel unwell, see a doctor early to get tested and treated.

We urge the public not to spread unsubstantiated information which may cause public alarm. Please visit www.moh.gov.sg for latest updates on the COVID-19 situation.