Coronavirus myths

15 Common Myths Around Coronavirus Causes and Treatments

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The COVID-19 Pandemic shows no sign of reduction, after several months of lockdown and all possible efforts given by the government and citizens. The latest statistics can be found here. In these extreme, severe times, government and health authorities constantly urge you to stay indoors, frequently use sanitizers, stay calm and get medical advice immediately for the presence of coronavirus symptoms-cough, fever, sneezing, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing.

Among these, there is severe panic among citizens, many of whom rely on false news and messages from social networks concerning the causes or treatment of the coronavirus. Here are some of these misunderstandings that circulate and the myths that surround them are discussed:

1. High Temperature Can Kill The COVID-19

Although previous coronaviruses – SARS and MERS – were better survived in cold surroundings, COVID-19 can not be guaranteed the same. The new coronavirus, including areas with hot and moist weather, could be transmitted from the evidence so far. So it would be a false hope to assume that in the summer the pandemic will be gone.

2. Only Old People Gets Affected by the Coronavirus

Although the proportion of the elderly affected is marginally higher, that is due to their poor immune system and co-morbidities. People with pre-existing diabetes mellitus, renal disease and heart disease also have a higher risk of infection and death. Young people are also infected, even if rates are lower.

3. Vitamin C Helps to Cure the Infection

Vitamin C was assumed to provide a remedy for the outbreak of SARS. However, supplements of vitamin C can strengthen your immune system, but there is no proof yet that they could help humans battle with the new coronavirus.

4. Ayurveda, Homoeopathic and Other Herbal Medicines Can Cure/Prevent the Coronavirus

This debate began with an Advisory Council releasing a range of Unani medicines that can help prevent coronavirus infections in the Ayurvedic, Yoga & Naturopathic, Unani, Sidha, Sowa Rigpa and Homeopathic (AYUSH) Ministry. There is, however, no scientific evidence so far to support this argument.

5. I heard You Can Get Covid-19 Through Your Eyes. Should We Wear Goggles, too?

Doctors claim that wearing eye protection will definitely benefit people (in addition to face masks), but that is not essential for everyone. If large numbers of people got coronavirus through their eyes, doctors will definitely be able to see more COVID-19 patients diagnosed with conjunctivitis (which is also known as pink eye).

6. Eating Garlic Will Prevent the Infection

The antimicrobial properties of garlic make people believe that it also prevents infection with COVID-19. WHO has also explained, that there is simply no proof that the virus can be prevented with it.

7. Taking a Hot Bath or Drinking Hot Water Can Prevent the Virus from Infecting You

Coronavirus symptoms include cough, moderate fever, sore throat, headache and ache in the majority of sick people. There is no proof that it will heal you when drinking warm water, but it can make you feel better.  The WHO also states that having a bath in hot water will not work because the body’s average temperature remains 36.5°C to 37°C regardless of your bath or shower temperature.

8. Holding Breath for 10 Seconds Without Discomfort is Not a Test for Coronavirus

Holding breath for 10 seconds does not conclude that you don’t have the infection. ost young people can hold there breath longer than 10 sec, while older people are unable to hold their breath for 10 seconds even without an infection. A diagnostic check is the only way to ensure that you are not contaminated.

9. Dogs Can Cause Coronavirus

This myth began with a dog in Hong Kong being tested positive. But later it was found because the owner of the dog was infected and the virus was found in the dog’s canine after testing. However, the WHO said coronavirus can not be found in dogs.

10. Drinking Alcohol Can Protect you against COVID-19

This statement is absolutely false. Rather taking alcohol can increase your risk of health problems and results in reduced immunity which can attract COVID-19.

11. Children cannot get COVID-19

SARS-CoV-2 can affect all age groups. Most of the cases are in adults, however, children are not fully immune to it. Currently, preliminary research shows that children are similarly vulnerable to it but have less severe symptoms.

12. Everyone with COVID-19 Dies

This is a misleading statement. The COVID-19 is fatal for a limited proportion of individuals.

A recent study found that 80.9 per cent of COVID-19 cases were mild, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The WHO also estimates that some 80% of people are infected by a comparatively mild disease that does not require intensive medical care. Minor symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue and breathlessness.

13. Face Masks Always Protect Against Coronavirus

CDC recommends wearing cloth masks in public areas where a 6-foot (2 meters) gap is difficult to maintain. CDC recommends that all people should wear cloth masks. This will help slow the virus spread.

14. 5G Helps SARS-CoV-2 Spread

Via radio wave / mobile network viruses can not travel. In several countries without mobile 5G networks, the COVID-19 is still expanding.

The COVID-19 spreads over the air gout as you cough, sneeze, or speak with an infected human. People may also be infected with their hand, mouth or nose by touching a contaminated surface.

15. Drugs Can Cure or Prevent COVID-19

There is no evidence that hydroxychloroquine or any other drugs can treat or prevent COVID-19 although many clinical trials are being carried out. Hydroxychloroquine misuse can lead to severe side effects and even death. The WHO works together to develop and evaluate COVID-19 drugs. Recently Russia has come out with the world’s FIRST Covid-19 vaccine.

Reference: WHO