Covid-19: Bizarre anti mask booklets sent to homes in Birmingham

A bizarre booklet claiming that masks do not protect against viruses has been delivered to homes across Birmingham.

The 14-page booklet about the Covid-19 pandemic was posted to homes in Kings Norton at the weekend.

The title says: Mask Wearing If you wear a mask, you need to read this booklet.

It contains pictures and text making odd claims about fake news and brainwashing - including Nazi slogans and references.

It also includes anti vaccine statements.

A QR code is also featured which takes readers through to a blog - which is blocked by most wifi providers.

Kings Norton North Labour Cllr Alex Aitken has urged residents to ignore the ‘dangerous misinformation’.

He said: “I am appalled by these dangerous leaflets that are being distributed in our local area, which include dangerous misinformation. Not only does this undermine the tireless work of our NHS staff, but it is also insulting to the memories and family of the near 150,000 people who have died in our country from this awful virus.

“That being said, I have full faith in the people of Kings Norton to see this for exactly what it is: inaccurate, misleading and dangerous. I trust that residents will continue to do their bit to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. I thank the Kings Norton community for playing their part in putting an end to this virus.”

What is the latest news about the Omicron variant?

The booklet has been circulated as the Omicron variant continues to spread across the UK, with scientists from the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group (NERVTAG) warning it coud trigger a surge in Covid infections - bigger than previous waves in the UK.

There have now been 22 confirmed cases of the Omicron, with Health Secretary Sajid Javid saying that number would "certainly go up".

The vaccination programme is continuing with a huge push to get more people to take up the booster jab.

Currency 47% of 50 year-olds and over are vaccinated in Birmingham - the fifth lowest rate in the Country.

You can find the latest information about booster jabs in Birmingham and the walk in centres across the city and Solihull and Sandwell here.

A message from the editor:

Thank you for reading. BirminghamWorld is Birmingham’s latest news website, championing everything that is great about our city - reporting on news, lifestyle and sport. We want to start a community among our readers, so please follow us on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram, and keep the conversation going.