Published online Feb 26, 2020. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v8.i4.652
Peer-review started: February 12, 2020
First decision: February 16, 2020
Revised: February 17, 2020
Accepted: February 21, 2020
Article in press: February 21, 2020
Published online: February 26, 2020
The current corona virus disease 2019 outbreak caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 started in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and has put the world on alert. To safeguard Chinese citizens and to strengthen global health security, China has made great efforts to control the epidemic. Many in the global community have joined China to limit the epidemic. However, discrimination and prejudice driven by fear or misinformation have been flowing globally, superseding evidence and jeopardizing the anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 efforts. We analyze this phenomenon and its underlying causes and suggest practical solutions.
Core tip: The acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 outbreak is a global public health issue. Fear and stigma are growing due to misinformation and unfounded rumors. As a global community, we need solidarity instead of stigma to limit the spread of corona virus disease 2019. Open and transparent information on the outbreak to the global public, and administrative warning from authorities in every country are necessary to reduce fear and discrimination.