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Huawei Zambia refutes 5G COVID-19 claims

By , ITWeb’s Zambian correspondent.
Zambia , 20 May 2020
Huawei Technologies Zambia has refuted claims that the technology accelerates the spread of COVID-19.
Huawei Technologies Zambia has refuted claims that the technology accelerates the spread of COVID-19.

With so many African countries including Zambia, Namibia and Nigeria planning to rollout 5G network, Huawei Technologies Zambia has refuted claims that the technology accelerates the spread of COVID-19.

Amid the pandemic, global media reported on concerns expressed that 5G utilises higher frequency radio waves that are dangerous to humans and the environment compared to that of 2G, 3G and 4G technologies.

However, Huawei described these assertions as baseless and unfortunate.

Hansen He, director of public relations, Huawei Zambia said, “COVID-19 today is spread even in countries that literally do not have 5G network. It is clear that there can never be any relationship between the pandemic and the 5G technology.”

He said that while 5G does utilise high frequency radio waves compared to older technologies, it is crucial to keep in mind that these radio waves are non-ionising, which means that they are not capable of causing harm to DNA inside cells, as long as safety limits are observed.

“Yes, there may be a small increase in overall exposure to radio waves when 5G is added to an existing network or in a new area. However, the exposure is expected to remain low relative to guidelines and, as such, there should be no consequences for public health.”

When asked about plans to do more research on the technology going forward, He said technology is ever evolving in order to adapt to current trends and demands.

“Therefore, we are not relenting in terms of conducting more research on 5G because we want to continue responding to global ICT demands through adaptation in whatever best way we can, of course while observing ethical guidelines.”

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