The Intelligence from The Economist On the origins and the specious: the SARS-CoV-2 lab-leak theory
May 27, 2021
Natasha Loader, Health policy editor at The Economist, and Callum Williams, Senior economics writer at The Economist, dive into the ongoing debate over the origins of COVID-19, focusing on the lab-leak theory from Wuhan. They explore how public perception has shifted as new evidence emerges. The discussion shifts to Latin America's severe economic fallout from strict lockdowns, highlighting a GDP contraction that far exceeds the global average. Lastly, they touch on innovative shark breeding techniques that could benefit conservation efforts.
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COVID-19 Origins
- Two main COVID-19 origin theories exist: zoonotic spillover and lab leak.
- The lab leak theory, once dismissed, gains traction due to unanswered questions.
Wuhan Lab Workers
- Claims about three Wuhan lab workers falling ill before the outbreak resurfaced.
- These claims, initially aired by the Trump administration, coincide with the World Health Assembly.
Lab Leak Politics
- The lab leak theory's resurgence is both epidemiological and political.
- China's defensiveness and potential cover-up hinder investigation efforts.