Conspiracy theorists make outrageous claim they've found PROOF COVID-19 is a hoax - and say their 'evidence' is hidden in the Australian $10 note
- The new $10 note features a symbol almost identical to a coronavirus cell
- It is actually a bramble wattle, which is native to Australia, featured on the note
- Conspiracy theorists argue the symbol 'proves' coronavirus is not real
- Here’s how to help people impacted by Covid-19
Conspiracy theorists believe the new $10 bank note in Australia features a symbol almost identical to a coronavirus cell.
The Royal Australian Mint began circulating the new note in September 2017, two years before the virus was identified in Wuhan, China - the original epicentre.
A small minority of misguided COVID-19 deniers are pushing the ridiculous theory the symbol is proof the virus is a government hoax.
One person shared a photo of the note in a group noting the similarities between the design and scientific images of coronavirus.
The COVID-19 cell is widely depicted as being round with small spike-like branches protruding from the main body.
The COVID-19 cell is widely depicted as being round with small spike-like branches protruding from the main body
Even after the theory was debunked by another user who recognised the true meaning of the pattern, others commented agreeing the timing was suspicious
While a similar looking symbol is featured on the note, it actually represents a bramble wattle, which is native to Australia.
Bramble wattle, also known as acacia victoriae, is found in eastern parts of Australia and is a shrub-like tree with prickly spines.
The note also includes a picture of the Sulphur-crested Cockatoo, bush poet Banjo Paterson and Dame Mary Gilmore.
Even after the theory was debunked by another user who recognised the true meaning of the pattern, others commented agreeing the timing was suspicious.
'I bet it's got a tracking device implanted in the note,' one person said.
Conspiracy theorists believe the new $10 bank note in Australia features a symbol almost identical to a coronavirus cell
'Give me one person who can actually prove the virus... Anybody,' another added.
Scientists across the globe have been discussing the impacts of COVID-19 since it was first identified in December 2019.
There are more than 4.9 million known cases globally, including 320,000 who have died and another 1.9 million who have already recovered.
COVID-19 was first identified in Wuhan in December 2019, but rapidly spread to almost every corner of the globe.
Entire nations - including Australia - have been forced into lockdown in an attempt to slow the spread of the deadly respiratory virus.
In spite of the numbers, conspiracy theorists have repeatedly questioned the legitimacy of the infection and even linked it to the rollout of the 5G technology network.
Others have used the virus as an opportunity to spruik dangerous anti-vaccination agendas.
Bramble wattle, also known as acacia victoriae, is found in eastern parts of Australia and is a shrub-like tree with prickly spines
