Quick Take
There are multiple messages spread across social media which claims that Holi colours and pichkaris made in China will carry Coronavirus. One of the message even had a photo of an advisory claimed from WHO and Indian Government. We investigated and found these messages to be absolutely false.
The Claim
The messages posted on social media claims that colors and pichkaris from China will be contaminated by Coronavirus. The messages are floated on whatsapp, facebook and other social media platforms
Fact Check
Have the Indian Government and WHO issue any advisory against Holi products from China?
No. We checked the WHO website and the different official twitter handles of Indian Govt. We also checked the various recent press releases by Indian Govt. There were no advisory against any products ‘Made in China’.
We consider the particular note in circulation to be fake too due to multiple reasons –
- The note was claimed to be from WHO but had emblem of Indian Govt.
- The note was written in Hindi with multiple spelling mistakes
- The spelling of the name of Chinese city Wuhan was spelt wrong too
Are Holi products from China safe?
While the researches about Cornavirus’ ability to sustain on various surfaces is still underway, it is unlikely that the virus can sustain on colours or pichkaris for the duration of transport from China to India. So, the products are safe in a way that they will not be carrying the viruses in from China.
However, the products can be contaminated at ground level in India. Coronavirus is no longer a Chinese phenomenon but a global pandemic which means that there are multiple people in India too who are infected. If such a person touch the product immediately before you handle it, there is a slight chances of the virus transmitting to you.
So, that means playing Holi is safe?
It is not. Health experts across the world is advising against any social gathering or physical touch. Holi is a celebration of touch and gathering – both of which increases the risk of you coming in close contact with an infected person.
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