Popular Myths Busted on Corona Virus

The COVID-19 viral disease has rapidly spread over 121,000 people from Asia to Europe, the Middle East and now in parts of the United States. It is officially a pandemic now, according to the World Health Organization. Coronaviruses (COV) is a large family of viruses, basically an RNA virus and in past being responsible for illness ranging from the common cold to severe manifestations like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). Moreover, a novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that hasn’t been previously identified in humans, it’s a zoonotic infection.

Dr. Vikrant Shah, consulting physician, intensivist and infection disease specialist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital Chembur dispels the common myths surrounding it. In his words, ‘Right since the outbreak of corona virus, rumours and misinformation about it have been spreading at a rapid rate more than the virus is. I suggest everyone to be cautious, and do not rely on the information available on social media or opt for any sort of home remedies. If you have a cough or cold then seek immediate medical attention.” Here, we also list out common myths and facts regarding corona virus.

Common Myths on Corona Virus Vs Facts:                  

1. Myth: Heat can kill corona virus.

Fact: This has not been proved yet. From the evidence so far, the virus can be transmitted in all areas, including the areas having hot and humid weather but temperatures above 30 degrees is not very favourable for a virus.

2. Myth: Eating garlic can help prevent from corona virus.

Fact: Though, garlic has antimicrobial properties. There is no available evidence that suggests the prevention of coronavirus by eating garlic.

3. Myth: Kids cannot get corona virus.

Fact: Anyone irrespective of their age can get the coronavirus. Similarly, those people with pre-existing medical conditions appear to be more vulnerable to serious infections.

4. Myth: Corona virus means death.

Fact: There is no need to panic. One can take the necessary precautions to safeguard themselves from this deadly virus.

5. Myth: Drinking alcohol can protect you against COVID-19.

Fact: Frequent or excessive alcohol consumption can be dangerous and increase your risk of health problems. 

6. Myth: Taking a hot bath can prevent the new corona virus disease.

Fact:  Taking a hot bath will not prevent you from catching COVID-19. Your normal body temperature remains around 36.5°C to 37°C, regardless of the temperature of your bath or shower. Actually, taking a hot bath with extremely hot water can be harmful, as it can burn you.

7. Myth: The new coronavirus can be transmitted through mosquito bites.

Fact: To date there has been no information or evidence to suggest that the new coronavirus could be transmitted by mosquitoes. The new coronavirus is a respiratory virus which spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose.

8. Myth: Vaccines against pneumonia protect you against the new coronavirus.

Fact: No. Vaccines against pneumonia do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against 2019-nCoV, and WHO is supporting their efforts.

A word of caution:

• Reportedly, a study published in the Journal Of Hospital, the SARS coronavirus (Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus called SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) – at a temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degree Celcius) tends to last for 2 days on steel, 4 days on wood and glass, 5 days on metal, plastic, and ceramics.

• The virus can last for up to 96 hours at room temperature on the screen of your Smartphone and on the plastered wall for 36 hours. We pick the phone and place it on the ear and it touches the face and transmits the viruses. Alcohol wipes should be sued to clean the glass of the phone. Turn off your phone and clean it with a microfiber cloth

Book Appointment: Dr. Vikrant Shah, consulting physician, intensivist and infection disease specialist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital Chembur