COVID-19: Are asymptomatic patients not infectious? UAE official clarifies

There is no scientific evidence indicating that transmissions from asymptomatic COVID-19 patients are rare.

That’s according to the official spokesperson of the UAE’s health sector, who has clarified that many studies on the virus are still inconclusive.

Dr. Farida Al Hosani has urged people not to rush to conclusions based on online reports.

She reiterated that patients who are asymptomatic or have mild symptoms must continue to follow quarantine regulations.

Dr. Al Hosani also added that there are conflicting reports about the effectiveness of Hydroxychloroquine, so the drug is only being used for mild and moderate cases, in line with international practices.

Dr. Al Hosani: With some reports saying COVID-19 transmission rate from asymptomatic patients is rare, we would like to clarify that many studies on the virus are still inconclusive. Cases that are asymptomatic or with mild symptoms have to follow quarantine regulations. #UAEGov

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) June 10, 2020

Dr. Al Hosani: We urge the public to continue to follow health measures, wear face mask, wash hands and practice social distancing. Also, we should pay attention to the elderly and individuals at risk. We advise them to follow social distancing and avoid public places. #UAEGov

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) June 10, 2020

On Tuesday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) clarified its position on people without symptoms, saying much remains unknown about asymptomatic transmission.

It held a live Q&A on its social media pages to clear up confusion about recent comments made by a WHO official that suggested asymptomatic people only rarely spread the virus.

The initial comments appeared to directly contradict guidance from international public health organisations.

"Since early February, we have said that asymptomatic people can transmit #COVID19, but that we need more research to establish the extent of asymptomatic transmission. That research is ongoing"-@DrTedros

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) June 10, 2020

"This is a new virus & we are all learning all the time.
Communicating complex science in real time about a new virus is not always easy, but we believe it’s part of our duty to the world. And we can always do better"-@DrTedros #COVID19

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) June 10, 2020