At this point, the origin of the COVID-19 pandemic is unconfirmed, but remains hotly debated.

What Left-Rated Media Does

• Highlight lack of evidence for lab leak theory
• Frame animal-to-human passage as likely pandemic origin
• In some cases, describe lab leak theory as debunked or conspiratorial
• Focuses less on potential misconduct by U.S. government

What Right-Rated Media Does

• Highlight lack of evidence for other theories
• Highlight lack of transparency from Chinese government
• Highlight safety concerns at Wuhan lab
• Focuses more on purported misconduct by U.S. government

Let’s break down the media coverage and dominant opinions around the theory, and highlight the main facts and myths to be aware of.