Covid-19: Busting the myths
Much false and misleading information about the coronavirus are doing the rounds on social media, so we thought we should bust some of those myths
DOES taking a hot bath or eating garlic help prevent being infected with Covid-19?
Much false and misleading information about the coronavirus are doing the rounds on social media, so we thought we should bust some of those myths.
The National Department of Health’s WhatsApp line provides up-to-date, necessary and informative information on the coronavirus and related issues.
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Busting the myths
Bath: Taking a hot bath does not prevent Covid-19 infection.
Garlic: This is a healthy food that may have some anti-microbial properties, however there is no evidence from the current outbreak that eating garlic has protected people against Covid-19.
Spray: No, spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill viruses that have already entered your body.
Spraying such substances can be harmful to clothes or mucous membranes (eyes and mouth). Alcohol and chlorine can be useful in disinfecting surfaces, but must be used under appropriate conditions.
Dryers: No, hand dryers are not effective in killing Covid-19. To protect yourself against this virus, frequently clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Once hands are clean, dry them thoroughly with paper towels.
Mosquito: Covid-19 cannot be transmitted through mosquito bites.
Age: People of all ages can be infected by Covid-19. Older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions (asthma, diabetes and heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable. The World Health Organisation (WHO) advises people of all ages to take steps to protect themselves against the virus, for example by following good hand and respiratory hygiene.
Cold: Cold weather and snow cannot kill Covid-19.
Goods: Covid-19 cannot be transmitted through goods manufactured in China or any country reporting coronavirus cases.
Vaccines: No, vaccines against pneumonia, like the pneumococcal vaccine and haemophilus influenza type B vaccine, do not provide protection against Covid-19. The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine.
Researchers are working on developing a vaccine against Covid-19 and the WHO is supporting their efforts. While these vaccines are not effective against Covid-19, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect health.
Medicine: To date, there is no specific medicines to prevent or treat Covid-19, but those infected should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms. Some specific treatments are under investigation and will be tested through clinical trials.
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