Idris Elba slates 'ridiculous' conspiracy theory that black people can't get coronavirus

Idris Elba has slammed conspiracy theories claiming that black people can't get the coronavirus.

The Luther star, who is currently in isolation after testing positive for the virus, filmed a video on Pericope, dispelling the 'ridiculous' rumours circulating on social media.

“There are so many stupid, ridiculous conspiracy theories about black people not being able to get it,” he said in the message, posted yesterday.

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“Please guys, now is not the time.

“That is the quickest way to get more black people killed. Please understand that you can get it, all right? Stop sending out these stupid WhatsApp messages about black people not getting it. That's ridiculous. You're making us all look stupid. Just know you have to be as vigilant as every other race.

“This disease does not discriminate… Stop sending that shit out – it's dumb, silly, and it's going to get more people sick. People need to know facts, need to understand the truth, so they can protect themselves.”

Elba confirmed that though he's tested positive, he's still not showing symptoms, but isolated himself because of his lifelong asthma.

He also spoke about why he was tested for the virus, despite not having any symptoms.

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“I got tested because I realised I was exposed to someone who had also tested positive. I found out last Friday that they had tested positive. I quarantined myself and got a test immediately, and got the test results back today,” he said.

“Look, this is serious. Now is the time to really think about social distancing, washing your hands. Beyond that, there are people out there who aren't showing symptoms and that can easily spread. Now's the real time to be really vigilant about washing your hands and keeping your distance.”

Elba is among a number of high profile figures who have tested positive for the virus, including Tom Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson, actress Olga Kurylenko and Game of Thrones actor Kristofer Hivju.