The World Health Organization (WHO) gives some myth-busting facts surrounding Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). In the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak, people around the world have created a lot of myths in an attempt to seek measures beyond science.
- “Wearing a face mask will protect from getting COVID-19:” This is not true. WHO says masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand sanitizer containing alcohol or washing hands with soap and water.
- “Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over the body can kill the virus:” Not true. WHO says spraying alcohol and chlorine cannot kill the virus that has already entered the body. They are used as disinfectants.
- “Eating garlic can protect against the virus:” According to WHO, there is no evidence to show that eating garlic has protected people from coronavirus.
- “Pets like dogs and cats can get infected with the COVID-19 and they will transmit it to the owners:” There is no evidence to prove this. However, WHO says it is always good to wash hands with soap and water after contact with pets.
- “Taking a hot bath can prevent COVID-19:” False, It is not based on any studies or research.
- “The new coronavirus can be transmitted through a mosquito bite:” Not true as there is no evidence to prove this.
- “COVID-19 can be transmitted through goods manufactured in China or any other country reporting Covid-19 outbreak:” False, many viruses outside the host fall apart within hours in the natural environment. There is no evidence from any previous outbreak that anyone has ever gotten infected from a package. However, it is advisable to use disinfectant to clean a surface that you think is contaminated.
- “The new virus only infects older people:” No, people of all ages can be infected by the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Older people and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus. WHO advises people of all ages to take steps to protect themselves from the virus, for example by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene.
As of now, the best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently washing your hands with soap and water or cleaning them with alcohol-based hand rub. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.
Phub Gyem
