The buzzword on everyone’s lips these days is coronavirus or Covid-19. As the coronavirus continues to infect people around the world, it is inevitable that we get confused with the deluge of information that is presented to us, be it from our friends or from social media. It might be difficult to separate fact from fiction.
We address some common myths which we have heard about the coronavirus.
MYTH 1
Home remedies can cure or prevent coronavirus
Despite what well-meaning friends say about loading your diet with Vitamin C, water and even garlic to prevent coronavirus, there are no studies to prove that eating lots of garlic & Vitamin C and guzzling water every 15 minutes can help protect you from the coronavirus.
MYTH 2
Older people are more at risk
The coronavirus can infect people of any ages. However individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma are more prone to become severely ill.
MYTH 3
I can kill the coronavirus with heat
According to WHO, hand dryers cannot kill the coronavirus. WHO stated that the coronavirus can still be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climate. Some people think that the heat from ultraviolet disinfection lamp can kill the coronavirus and this is not true. UV lamps should not be used to sterilize hands or other areas of your skin as the UV radiation can harm your skin and cause irritation.
MYTH 4
The virus can be transmitted through mail
Researchers have found that the coronavirus doesn’t stay alive for long on objects and surfaces.
MYTH 5
You will definitely die if you have the coronavirus
While the coronavirus has claimed lives in various parts of the world, figures have shown that about 81% of people who are infected with the coronavirus have mild symptoms. People who get coronavirus will typically display symptoms such as runny nose, cough, sore throat, headache and fever that can last for a couple of days. For people with weakened immune system, there’s a possibility that the virus can cause more serious respiratory illness like pneumonia and bronchitis.
The best way to protect yourself against the coronavirus is by frequently washing your hands with soap and to refrain from touching your eyes, mouth and nose.