WHO clarifies remarks on asymptomatic spread of coronavirus

World Health Organization Outbreak Investigation Task Force leader Maria Van Kerkhove on Tuesday clarified comments she made the day before that asymptomatic transmission of the coronavirus is “very rare,” saying her comments were in reference to “two or three studies” following asymptomatic individuals.

Her comments sparked a backlash Monday from public health experts concerned about mixed messages from the WHO at a crucial time during the pandemic, when countries are relaxing economic restrictions and massive protests against racism and police brutality are sweeping the streets.

Wearing face masks has become a political statement for some while others doubt the severity