Myths vs facts about COVID-19/Corona Virus
With the spread of the novel coronavirus around the world, there are various myths making rounds. Keep reading to comprehend what are the myths you should know are more dangerous than the virus itself.
Mosquito bites can spread the virus?
For sure there are a number of diseases that can be spread through mosquito bites, but Convid-19 aka Corona Virus is not one of them. The Covid-19 is a respiratory virus that spreads mainly via droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes as well as through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose.
Thermal Scanners!
Some of you might be thinking about how they are gonna detect the Virus with a Thermal scanner. Mind it that the scanner detects if the temperature of the body is higher or someone has a fever, and one of the symptoms of the virus is fever. However, there are many people that do not show symptoms of the virus for as long as 2 to 10 days and the scanner will not be effective to detect those.
Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will help kill the virus?
Don’t get me started over this. I have heard this one the most, and no, spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill the new coronavirus. Spraying such substances can be harmful to clothes or mucous membranes (i.e. eyes, mouth) and remember to eat and drink healthy as your immune system is going to be your best friend if anyway you get in contact with an infected person.
Can eating garlic help prevent infection with the new virus?
Sure garlic is a healthy food that consists of antimicrobial properties, but till now (22 March 2020) there has been no evidence to back the claim up. However, eating garlic will defiantly help boost your immunity.
Are people with A blood group more prone to the virus and O blood group people are at least fear?
No, neither people with A blood group should panic nor O group blood people should go chill on this. This myth came from few studies in china that states more people dead or affected from the virus are from A blood group, but at the same time, they have cleared that this cannot be certain, just by the study of people from one place, that is just a fraction of World’s population.
Does the new coronavirus affect older people only, or are younger people also at risk?
People of all ages be it Old, Young or Child can be affected by the virus. Though, according to WHO, Older people, and people with already existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more susceptible to becoming severely ill with the virus. People of all ages are given the advice to take steps to protect themselves from the virus.
Are antibiotics effective in preventing and treating the new coronavirus?
No, antibiotics do not work against viruses, but only against bacteria. However, if you are hospitalized for the Covid-19, you may receive antibiotics because bacterial co-infection is possible.
10-second breath-hold trick?
You might have seen many posts stating holding your breath for 10 seconds trick on social media? It states if you pass 10 seconds without coughing you are safe. But it is not a way to confirm whether or not you are infected with Corona Virus, don’t risk yourself as well as people around you. The test needs to be done by a medical practitioner and its result will take time.
⇒ Summing it up, I would suggest people get themselves updated on the matter and follow the social distancing formula. To know about the Virus check out Covid-19 Updates article. To know its start check out Corona Virus Origin post. Also check out the movie Contagion summary, details and facts here!
