MATT LE TISSIER has been branded “thick” and “desperate for attention” after he compared coronavirus to common flu.
The deadly COVID-19 bug continues to sweep the globe with over 11,800 deaths worldwide and has seen major sporting events cancelled or postponed.
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Matt Le Tissier was slammed after comparing coronavirus to common fluCredit: Getty
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has shut schools in the UK, prohibited public places like pubs and clubs from being opened as well as recommending social distancing.
But ex-Southampton midfielder Le Tissier argues the public should take just as many safety precautions when treating regular flu.
He tweeted: “17000 people on average die of flu every year in the uk (646000 world) despite the fact we have a flu vaccine.
“Surely the drastic measures we’re taking to deal with covid19 should be replicated to deal with the flu each year if we truly care about the elderly and the vulnerable?”
However, users online slammed the now pundit for trying to compare coronavirus to normal flu, with COVID-19 putting a lot more stress on the NHS as they try to fight the new and killer bug.
One said: “Are you this desperate for attention, Matt?”
Another said: “Oh, how embarrassing.”
One added: “You have a huge platform and all you’re doing is using it to show everyone how thick you are. Give it a rest, stay indoors and put your phone away for the rest of the year.”
Despite several aiming abuse at the former England international, others agreed preventing or treating common flu should be taken more seriously.
One said: “Well said Matt.”
Another said: “He’s making a valid point for the future, very valid indeed. 17,000 per year! Dead! From a virus!”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk