Busting COVID-19 Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction

In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, numerous myths have circulated about ways to prevent contracting the virus or the existence of a vaccine. This article will debunk a few of these myths.

1. Ayurveda, homoeopathic and other herbal medicines can cure/prevent the coronavirus

The debate over whether Ayurveda, homoeopathy, and other herbal remedies can cure or prevent COVID-19 lacks scientific evidence. It's important to be cautious and follow advice from health authorities.

2. Vitamin C helps cure the infection

Vitamin C was believed to have some healing benefits during the SARS outbreak. While Vitamin C supplements may help boost your immune system, there is no evidence that they might help people fight the new coronavirus.

3. Only old people are affected by coronavirus

Although the ratio of old people getting infected is slightly 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 infection and mortality. Young people also get infected, although mortality rates are on the lower side. This happens because young people have been there for less time and have a lower chance of having comorbidities. It is possible that some of the youth have comorbidities, and those youth have a higher chance of dying. The immunity of old people above 70 weakens, so they are not allowed to take any vaccines.

4. Eating garlic will prevent the infection

Because of the antimicrobial properties of garlic, people think it also prevents COVID-19 infection. However, the WHO has already confirmed that there is no evidence that it prevents the virus.

5. The onset of summer means a decline in COVID-19

Although the previous coronaviruses—SARS and MERS—survived better in cold environments, the same is not guaranteed for COVID-19. From the evidence so far, the novel coronavirus can be transmitted in all areas, including areas with hot and humid weather. This virus thrived in the summer, and this myth was busted.

6. Taking a hot bath or drinking hot water can prevent the virus from infecting you

Coronavirus symptoms for most 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 cure you. According to WHO, having a bath in hot water will not work either since the body temperature remains at an average of 36.5°C to 37°C, regardless of the temperature of your bath or shower.

7. Eating meat can cause coronavirus

The virus does not spread through meat consumption—chicken, mutton, or fish, and avoiding it does not mean you will be safe. It can be spread when someone meets the respiratory droplets of an infected person. The only way to prevent this is by regularly using hand sanitizers and social distancing.

8. You do not 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 their 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. This myth was spread and then busted, so many people have stopped thinking of this as a truth.

9. Dogs can cause coronavirus

This myth started when a dog tested positive in Hong Kong. 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, the WHO stepped in and told them that coronavirus in dogs is not possible. This has also led to a major disowning of pets. Since then, the majority of those pets have not been adopted again.

10. 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 already entering your body. They are useful for disinfecting surfaces when used under appropriate recommendations. But using them on your body can harm your clothes or mucous membranes (i.e. eyes, mouth).

Many myths have spread during this pandemic, but not all of them are true. It's important to think critically about these myths and determine their validity.