One scientific post suggests links between the new coronavirus and AIDS. A second says it may have passed to people via snakes. A third claims it is a pathogen from outer space.
The emergence in China of a new human coronavirus that is causing an epidemic of flu-like disease has sparked a parallel viral information spread. Science — ranging from robust to rogue — is being conducted, posted and shared at an unprecedented rate.
While speedy scientific analysis is highly useful if it is good, flawed or misleading science can sow panic and may make an epidemic worse by prompting false policy moves or encouraging risky behavior.