As the number of reported cases of novel coronavirus continue to climb, even the slightest incident can spark rumours that run rampant on social media.
On Monday, a man was seen falling to the ground while waiting in line outside Richmond's HK BBQ Master around noon.
The scene was caught on video and then shared on WeChat and Vanpeople, one of Vancouver’s largest Chinese language online forums.
Someone online suggested that the man might have novel coronavirus, and the rumour quickly spread.
HK BBQ Master was quick to state on its Facebook page that the man experienced a seizure due to a condition unrelated to any virus.
"He came with a group of friends to enjoy lunch and patiently lined up outside the store. Within three minutes of appearing at our store, that was when (an incident) happened and caused him to experience seizures," reads the posting on the restaurant's Facebook page.
According to HK BBQ Master, one of the man's friends was able to provide immediate medical care, and an ambulance arrived shortly to assist. The man is, reportedly, in stable condition now.
HK BBQ Master warned the public of the risk of spreading rumours and false information.
"Always be vigilant and aware when reading news on social media, and in general. Most try to raise readership with scandals, most report hastily without understanding details, (and) some post for likes and attention. The dangers of unknowingly reporting false information can cause harm to small family businesses like ours."
The incident was also caught on the restaurant's CCTV camera, and that footage has been shared on the restaurant’s Facebook page.
Reverend Berechiah Lee, a friend of the man who collapsed, said his friend had a sudden epileptic seizure while waiting outside the restaurant, but his condition improved after being taken to the hospital.
"This accident is unrelated to HK BBQ Master," Lee added.
