US scientists criticize 'lab leak' theory

White House's novel coronavirus claims defy science, stoke divisions, say experts

Scientists in the United States have voiced strong criticism and deep concerns over the White House's new claims about the "lab leak theory" of the novel coronavirus, saying that scientific evidence contradicts these assertions while warning that such claims undermine trust in science and public health institutions.

The White House website recently published an article on tracing COVID-19 origins, which promotes the unsubstantiated theory that the novel coronavirus originated from a leak at a Chinese laboratory.

The site also alleges that US public health officials, including Anthony Fauci, former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, suppressed the "lab leak theory" and misled the public.