Does Bill Gates own the patent for the COVID-19 virus?

Bill Gates does not own the patent on the COVID-19 virus. This is a widespread conspiracy theory with no basis in fact.

There are patents related to coronaviruses, but these are usually focused on previous outbreaks such as SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), or on research into vaccines and treatments. One frequently cited patent (US Patent No. 10,130,701) relates to the coronavirus responsible for avian bronchitis, a disease that affects birds, and not the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has invested significant resources in combating global health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Their work includes funding vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics. The Gates Foundation’s involvement in global health initiatives has led to a number of conspiracy theories, but there is no evidence that Bill Gates or the Gates Foundation are involved in the creation or holding of a patent on SARS-CoV-2.

Several fact-checking organizations, such as PolitiFact, Snopes, and Reuters, have investigated and debunked these conspiracy theories. These organizations have determined that there is no basis for the claim that Bill Gates holds a patent on the COVID-19 virus.

Viruses that occur naturally, such as SARS-CoV-2, cannot be patented. Patents can only be granted for new and useful inventions, such as specific genetic modifications or synthetic versions of viruses for research and development.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-05-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024