Fake messages flood social media as first COVID-19 case detected in Chandigarh

After the detection of first COVID-19 patient here, the social media was flooded with fake messages, suggesting a "lockdown" and more confirmed cases of the deadly infection in Chandigarh.

The Chandigarh administration had to come out with a clarification, saying the messages were fake and advised people not to circulate the false information.

Meanwhile, people thronged markets in Chandigarh and Mohali markets fearing a shortage of essential items.

A 23-year-old woman, who recently returned from London, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, the first confirmed case of the deadly infection in the union territory.

In a fake message, it was claimed that three more cases of coronavirus were detected in Sector 19 of Chandigarh.

Another fake message said, "Emergency meeting announced. May be going to lockdown Chandigarh by evening."