Coronavirus is all anyone ever talks about now. Heck, it’s all I ever talk about (other than skincare of course haha). There are definitely questions you may have that might be answered with rumors… I’m here to give you what the latest evidence is proving and what it’s not.
Myth 1: Antibiotics can prevent COVID-19
Antibiotics will only work against bacteria, not viruses. Although COVID-19 may lead to a greater chance of bacterial co-infection due to a weakened immune system, taking unprescribed amounts antibiotics can worsen your health. Make sure you don’t take medicine that has not been approved by your doctor.
Myth 2: Only older people can get infected
Although it’s true that older people are much more at risk for serious effects of the virus, such as death or serious damage to organs, the virus does not infect different demographics at different rates (unless there are outside variables). That’s why we all need to do our very best to self-quarantine and be extremely mindful of what we’re doing or touching. Although many healthy young individuals will not feel the severe effects of the virus, our actions could greatly influence someone’s life.
Myth 3: Cats and dogs can’t spread the virus
I know, this one is kind of a shocker. Before, the WHO explained that there was no evidence that animals could get coronavirus. If you look at that page now, the section is missing, likely due to a case in Hong Kong, where a dog tested postitive after its owners got infected. Although the dog didn’t show any symptoms, and there’s no evidence that dogs can spread the disease or fall ill due to the disease, further research is needed to determine what is true. WHO is advising pet owners who suspected or have been infected to avoid contact with their pets, if possible letting another member of the household take care of them. If they must look after their pet, they should make sure to maintain the usual COVID-19 hygiene practices as well as wear a face mask.
Myth 4: Garlic prevents Coronavirus
Garlic is great for health and has some antimicrobial properties, but there is no evidence showing that eating garlic will protect people from coronavirus. So eat garlic bread for the benefit of your happiness, not as medicine!
Myth 5: Parcels from China can spread the virus
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that you are almost certainly not likely to catch the new coronavirus from a package from China. Since Coronavirus does not last very long on surfaces and the products are shipped over a period of several days, the virus will not be able to survive the transportation time.
Myth 6: The virus will die off with high temperatures
According to the European Centre for Disease Control, there is no evidence that shows SARS-CoV-2 will die down in the summer like other human coronaviruses in the northern hemisphere. Analyses from the outbreaks of the virus in places like Guangxi and Singapore found that the virus was still able to maitain its high levels of reproduction in tropical places with high humidity.
Myth 7: You can protect yourself from COVID-19 by swallowing or gargling bleach, taking acetic acid or steroids, or using essential oils, salt water, ethanol or other substances (hopkins medicine)
Please, please do not try any of these practices in hope of protecting or curing yourself from COVID-19. None of these methods have been proven and can be extremely counter-productive.
Myth 8: A face mask will protect you from COVID-19
There are definitely some masks that have some effectiveness in protecting against coronavirus, like the N95. However, these masks should be primarily reserved for health care workers and people who are in extreme danger of being infected. For most, a disposable surgical mask is not recommended, and only those with a respiratory illness should wear these masks to lessen their chance of infecting others. Be aware of the fact that taking these masks without being in danger means less masks for those who are risking their lives fighting the virus, like health care workers.
Have Hope.
Although these times are scary, it’s important to remember that together we can end it, and it will pass. If you guys ever need anything, don’t hesitate to reach out. I hope you guys stay healthy, strong, and hopeful!
Sources:
kobeautysite.wordpress.com 