10 Myths Related to Coronavirus
There are a lot of myths related to coronavirus and its possible treatment circulating on WhatsApp, Facebook and other social media channels, and therefore it is important to know what is right and what’s not.
Have a look at these most common misconceptions:
Myth 1: Taking A Hot Bath can Prevent the Coronavirus from Spreading
Fact: Taking a hot bath will not help to fend off the virus, according to WHO. The normal body temperature remains in between 36.5°C to 37°C, irrespective of the temperature of the shower. The best way to defend yourself from the virus is by regularly washing hands with soap and water. It avoids the transfer of viruses that may be in your hand to your eyes, nose and mouth.
Myth 2: Coronavirus Affects Only Old People
Fact: Although the ratio of old people getting corona disease is a bit higher, it does not mean that they are only infected from coronavirus. The virus catches them easily because of their weak immune system. As per WHO, people of all ages can get the infection. People whether young or old with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, asthma are also at high risk for the infection.
Myth 3: Garlic Help Protect Against the New Coronavirus
Fact: Although Garlic has some antibacterial and antiviral properties that allow it to fight with some viruses and bacteria. But, no study after the outbreak reveals its effectiveness in treating the novel coronavirus, cleared by WHO.
Myth 4: Spraying Yourself with alcohol, chlorine or Bleach can kill the new coronavirus
Fact: This idea surfaces because of the fact that use of alcohol, chlorine or bleach as a disinfectant to clean surfaces are common, so can also help sanitize people. But spraying yourself with any of these substances won’t help if the virus has already entered your body. Even the chemicals present in alcohol, bleach and chlorine can damage mucous membranes like mouths, eyes or nose. So don’t believe in this rumour and properly wash hands with soap and water to stop the virus from spreading.
Myth 5: Coronavirus Won’t Survive In The Summers
Fact: Unlike SARS and MERS coronaviruses- that could not take the heat, this extremely infectious COVID-19 can remain stable at even high temperature. As per the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the high temperature only affects the survival time of novel coronavirus but it does not reduce its ability to infect. And thus, the virus can spread in all areas, including areas with a hot and humid climate.
Myth 6: Dogs can spread COVID-19
Fact: This myth occurred when a dog in Hong Kong tested positive of COVID-19 after his owner confirmed infected from the coronavirus. The virus was found in the Dog’s canine. However, WHO informed that coronavirus in dogs is not possible. Even WHO cleared that any pets like dogs or cats in touch with humans have tested positive for COVID-19, can’t transmit the disease to humans.
Myth 7: Regular Gargling with Saline Water Can Help Prevent Coronavirus
Fact: Although gargling with saline water can soothe a sore throat, but till now no evidence from the current outbreak shows that doing this practice daily can protect the people from the novel coronavirus.
Myth 8: Hand Dryers Are Effective In Killing The New Coronavirus.
Fact: It is a misconception that hand dryers can kill the coronavirus. Instead to keep yourself safe from the novel coronavirus, frequently wash your hands with soap or water or clean with an alcohol-based sanitizer. Once, your hands are properly washed, you can dry them by using a warm air dryer or towels.
Myth 9: Holding breath for 10 seconds or more without any discomfort means you don’t have COVID-19
Fact: You cannot say this as to date there has been no study to suggest this thing. Many young patients can hold their breath for 10 seconds or even longer, while many old people can’t hold the breath for 10 seconds even without have any infection. So, the only way to confirm whether you are infected with coronavirus or not is to get a laboratory test done.
Myth 10: Coronavirus Can Be Spread by Mosquito Bites
Fact: So far, there has been not any evidence suggest that the novel coronavirus could be transmitted through mosquitoes. The novel coronavirus is a respiratory virus that spreads chiefly through droplets expelled by the infected person while sneezing or coughing. Hence, maintaining a safe distance of at least 1 metre (3 feet) between yourself and others can reduce your chances of being infected with the new virus.
So, these were the myths or facts that you must be aware of. Educate others as well who have misinformation regarding the COVID-19. Source: WHO
