Ant Middleton under fire for urging people to ‘carry on as normal’ over Covid-19
His comments were criticised by many on social media.
Ant Middleton has come under fire for telling people to “carry on as normal” and not “be a sheep” amid the coronavirus outbreak.
The Prime Minister has urged the public to socially distance themselves in a bid to “turn the tide” against the spread of the disease.
However, the SAS: Who Dares Wins presenter, who was in the British Special Forces, told fans on Instagram that he does not think the advice applies to him because he is “strong and able”.
The comments were criticised by a number of social media users.
Middleton said: “If you are fit and healthy don’t be a sheep and lock yourself away.”
He said that he is not affected by coronavirus “so the experts, thank you for your advice, but it is not needed for me”.
Middleton added that he is an “expert” in “living life”.
He added: “So if Covid-19 doesn’t effect you then carry on as normal, stop panicking, stop worrying, keep the economy going, protect the vulnerable, stay positive, be happy.”
One woman, who claimed to be a doctor, labelled Middleton’s comments as “completely irresponsible advice”.
She wrote on Instagram: “The healthcare system is preparing for the most challenging times many have ever seen and the plethora of ‘advice’ coming from influencers and celebrities is making life so much more difficult for those of us on the front line.
“Carrying on as normal is not an option, we need to adapt, be informed and be alert.”
Another user wrote that “all our lives must change to beat this”, adding: “You can protect the vulnerable by not catching this virus, therefore not passing it on.
“So saying carry on as normal because you are strong and able is not protecting the vulnerable.
“If the media stopped reporting, yes people would go on as normal, but ignorance is not safety.”
Another Instagram user said: “Stop taking advice from celebrities people, listen to the experts.”
