Necessity is the mother of invention, but it can also result in disaster. Even before the coronavirus was named a pandemic by the WHO, people have been searching up the internet for information concerning the novel virus. While some of the information found online are factual and backed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), many others are questionable and have no evidence to support them.
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So, what is true and what isn’t? Here are 6 coronavirus myths and the reasons why they should be ignored.
If you’re healthy, face masks will prevent you from contracting Coronavirus
Contrary to popular belief, face masks are not 100% effective in preventing you from contracting COVID-19. The disposable face masks available at pharmacies are not able to block out particles from coughs and sneezes that can cause you to get infected.Â
However, people who have been diagnosed with coronavirus should wear face masks to prevent droplets from their coughs or sneezes from infecting those around them. The people who actually need face masks are those who are sick and healthcare workers caring for coronavirus patients.Â
The Coronavirus Does Not Spread In Warmer Climate
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has established the fact that coronavirus can be transmitted in all areas regardless of climate. Whether you live in a warm or cool climate, adhere to preventive measures such as washing your hands, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and maintaining social distancing.
You Are Not Contagious If You Do Not Show Symptoms Of The Disease
This used to be the assumption until WHO released new information that people with mild or no symptoms might be infectious. Several studies show that asymptomatic carriers are contributing to a substantial rate of infection.
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Drinking Water Will Flush The Virus From Your Mouth
This claim started making the rounds on social media a few weeks ago and might have been mistaken by some as factual information. It suggests that you drink water every 15 minutes because even if the coronavirus gets into your mouth, the water can flush it away, into your stomach where it will die because of the acid in your stomach.
While it is important to stay hydrated whether you’re sick or not, there is no evidence, according to WHO, that drinking water will prevent you from getting the disease.
You Can’t Get The Virus If You’re Younger
This has been the widespread belief since the onset of the pandemic and there’s some truth to it. Though we now know that people of any age can get the virus, including children. Older adults and people with underlying health conditions are considered to be most at risk. However, recent data shows that nearly 40% of hospitalized coronavirus patients in the U.S. are under the age of 54.
Herbs Such As Garlic Will Cure Or Protect You From Coronavirus
A medicinal herb, garlic is known to benefit the body in many ways including boosting the immune system. There is, however, no evidence that suggests it can prevent a coronavirus infection contrary to rumours circulating the Internet. A particular post on social media states that boiling garlic and drinking the residue can be helpful. However, according to WHO, it can’t protect you from getting infected with the virus.
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