Two weeks of lockdown and all the possible efforts by the government as well as citizens, yet, the havoc of COVID-19 is showing no sign of abatement. You can get updated with the current numbers here. In such extreme, grave times, the government and the healthcare bodies are constantly appealing you to stay indoors, use sanitizers frequently, stay calm, and immediately reach out for medical advice in case of showing coronavirus infection symptoms—cough, fever, sneezing, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing.
Amidst all these, there’s severe panic among the citizens, a lot of them relying on the fake news and messages being spread through social media regarding the coronavirus causes or modes of treatment. So here’s taking a look at some of these misconceptions that are getting circulated, and busting the myths around them:
- Ayurveda, homeopathic and other herbal medicines can cure/prevent the coronavirus
This debate started when the ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) released an advisory council suggesting that some Unani medicines can help to prevent the coronavirus infection. However, there is no scientific backing that supports this claim, so far. - Vitamin C helps cure the infection
Vitamin C was believed to have some healing benefits in the SARS outbreak. Besides, while Vitamin C supplements may help boost your immune system, there is yet no evidence that it might help people fight off the new coronavirus. - Only old people are affected by coronavirus
Although the ratio of old people getting infected is a little higher, it is because of their weak immune system and underlying co-morbidities. People with pre-existing diabetes mellitus, kidney disease and heart conditions are also at a greater risk for the infection and mortality. Young people also get infected, although mortality rates are on lower side. - Eating garlic will prevent the infection
Because of the antimicrobial properties of garlic, people think it also prevents the COVID-19 infection. However, the WHO has already cleared that there is no evidence whatsoever that it prevents the virus. - Onset of summers mean a decline of the virus
Although the previous coronaviruses—SARS and MERS—survived better in cold environments, there is no guarantee that the same will be true for COVID-19. From the evidence so far, the novel coronavirus can be transmitted in all areas, including areas with hot and humid weather. And assuming that the virus will disappear in the summer would be a false hope. - Taking a hot bath or drinking hot water can prevent the virus from infecting you
Coronavirus symptoms for a majority of the people infected include cough, mild fevers, sore throat, headache, and body ache. While drinking warm water can make you feel better, there is no evidence that it will not cure you. Having a bath in hot water won't work either, according to WHO, since the body temperature remains at an average of 36.5°C to 37°C, regardless of the temperature of your bath or shower.
- Eating meat can cause coronavirus
The virus doesn’t spread through consumption of meat—chicken, mutton, or fish, and avoiding it doesn’t mean you will be safe. It can be spread when someone comes in contact with respiratory droplets of an infected person. And the only way to prevent this is regular use of hand sanitizers and social distancing. - You don’t have COVID if you can hold your breath for ten seconds without discomfort
You cannot conclude this by holding your breath for 10 seconds. Many young patients can hold their breath even longer, while elderly people cannot hold the breath for 10 seconds even without the infection. The only way to make sure you are not infected is to get a laboratory test done. - Dogs can cause coronavirus
This myth started when a dog was tested positive in Hong Kong. But later it was found that it was because the dog owner was infected with the virus, and when tested, the virus was found in the dog’s canine. However, WHO stepped in telling that coronavirus in dogs is not possible. - Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body can kill the new coronavirus
No, spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill viruses that have already entered your body. They are useful to disinfect surfaces when used under appropriate recommendations. But using them on your body can be harmful for your clothes or mucous membranes (i.e. eyes, mouth).
That was all about the myths or facts you needed to know. It will help you stay clear of any false beliefs, and from spreading them any further. Hope you are safe and quarantined in your homes. Take care!
