As coronavirus continues to spread around the world, conspiracy theories are cropping up in its wake. The idea that China or the US developed the virus as a bio-weapon may sound far-fetched, but conspiracy theory experts Daniel Jolley and Pia Lamberty explain that they find fertile ground in times of uncertainty.

These theories are dangerous because historical precedent shows people who believe in medical conspiracy theories are less likely to follow the advice of authorities when it comes to stopping the spread of the virus and are more likely to try harmful alternative treatments. As well as the potential harm to health this could cause, there’s a danger that certain groups will be attacked if they are perceived to be part of the “conspiracy”.