A monk in India claimed that he could cure COVID-19 patients by kissing their hands, but ended up contracting the virus and even infected 20 other followers.

Despite knowing that coronavirus spreads through our mucus and saliva droplets, the monk told his followers that he was able to get rid of their troubles as well as treat the coronavirus disease by kissing their hands.

However, local healthy ministry said the monk had tested positive for COVID-19 on June 3, and died of the disease the next day. Health officers immediately tracked those who had had close contact with him and collected 40 test samples, in which 20 came back positive.

Seven family members of the monk were among the 20 infected.

Indian Health Ministry has also isolated 29 individuals who received similar ‘treatment’.

Photo source: The Straits Times

Source: China Press

Cover photo: Business Insider || Quartz