Was the COVID-19 virus made in a Chinese lab?

The origins of the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2) are a subject of much debate and research. While several theories have been proposed, the most likely and widely accepted explanation is that the virus is of animal origin, probably from bats, and possibly jumped to the human population via an intermediate host.

Most scientists and public health experts support the theory that SARS-CoV-2 was transmitted from animals to humans via a natural zoonotic jump. This transmission likely occurred at a wildlife market in Wuhan, China, where various wild animals were sold. Studies have shown that coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV-2 naturally occur in bats and that such viruses can jump to humans, possibly via an intermediate host such as a pangolin .

There have been speculations and hypotheses that the virus accidentally escaped from a laboratory in Wuhan, where research on coronaviruses was being conducted. This theory has been popularized by some politicians and media sources. However, the evidence for a laboratory leak is limited and largely based on circumstantial evidence. Most scientific studies do not support this theory and consider it less likely compared to the natural transmission theory .

Based on the available evidence and the consensus within the scientific community, it seems unlikely that the COVID-19 virus was created in a Chinese laboratory.

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-020-0820-9

Source: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/origins-of-the-virus

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-05 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025