WHO says COVID-19 origin needs more studies as top expert's lab 'concern' made public for first time

The World Health Organization’s lead investigator into the coronavirus’ origins in China appears to have contradicted his February statement dismissing the Wuhan lab-leak theory – admitting that it was not “extremely unlikely” as the WHO said at the time, but “probable.”

"On review of the phase one study report, WHO determined that there was insufficient scientific evidence to rule any of the hypotheses out," the statement continued. "Specifically, in order to address the ‘lab hypothesis,’ it is important to have access to all data and consider scientific best practice and look at the mechanisms WHO already has in place." The WHO said China and other member states have accused the investigation into the coronavirus’ origins of becoming "politicized" and claiming the international organization is caving to political pressure.