Coronavirus outbreak that has become a global pandemic has made a lot of information circulating in the community related to this virus. However, not a bit of that information is hoax. In fact, the hoax is also increasing public panic.
To ward off misinformation that is widely circulated, World Health Organization (WHO) also gives explanations for information that is spread among the public. Here are some clarifications from WHO on some misinformation:
1. Hot and Snow Weather Can Kill Coronavirus
There is no reason to trust this information. Normal human body temperature ranges from 36.5 degrees celsius to 37 degrees celsius regardless to the temperature or weather outside.
2. Hot Shower Can Prevent Covid-19
Bathing with hot water will not prevent you from Covid-19. Normal body temperature still ranges from 36.5 degrees celsius to 37 degrees celsius regardless of what your temperature is while bathing or even the water used. Actually, bathing with hot water especially very hot ones is dangerous, because it can burn your body.
3. Coronavirus Can be Transmitted Through Mosquito Bites
Until now, there is no evidence that explains that the new coronavirus can be transmitted through mosquitoes. The new coronavirus is a type of respiratory virus that can be transmitted through droplets from infected persons when they cough or sneeze.
4. Hand Dryer Can Kill Virus
Hand dryer is not effective in killing coronavirus. The most effective way to prevent contracting the virus is wash your hands regularly. After washing your hands, dry your hands using a tissue, and throw it.
5. Ultraviolet (UV) Disinfection Lamps Can Kill Coronavirus
UV lamps should not be used to sterilize hands or other skin parts. Because UV radiation can actually cause irritation to your skin.
6. Thermal Scanner Can Detects the Virus
Thermal scanner is able to detect human body temperature of people who have a fever, however, this tool can’t detect whether someone has been infected or not. Because, the symptoms of Covid-19 only appear within two to 10 days, before someone infected feels the pain or fever.
7. Spraying Alcohol or Chlorine Throughout the Body Can Kill Virus
Spraying alcohol or chlorine throughout the body will not kill the virus that has entered your body. Spraying these substances is actually dangerous on mucous membranes such as eyes and mouth. In fact, alcohol and chlorine are useful for disinfecting surfaces, and their use must be as recommended by experts.
8. Pneumonia Vaccine Can Protect You from Coronavirus
Vaccine that can cure pneumonia can’t protect us from the new coronavirus. This virus is very different and requires its own vaccine. The researchers are currently working hard to be able to find a vaccine that can fight coronavirus.
Although existing vaccines are not effective against Covid-19, vaccination against respiratory diseases is highly recommended to protect your health.
9. Rinse the Nose with Saline Liquid Can Prevent Coronavirus Infection
There is no evidence to explain this information. There is limited evidence that explains that this step can help people recover faster from common cold. However, rinsing the nose has not been proven to prevent respiratory infections.
10. Eating Onion Can Help Prevent You From Virus Infections
Garlic is indeed a healthy food that has several antimicrobial characters. However, there is no evidence to suggest that eating garlic can cure a person from Covid-19.
11. Antibiotics Can Prevent and Treat Coronavirus
Antibiotic work to fight bacteria, not viruses. Covid-19 is a disease caused by a virus. Therefore, antibiotics should not be used as prevention or treatment of this disease.
12. Coronavirus Only Attacks Older People
Everyone in all age groups can be infected with the coronavirus. However, people who are elderly or have a history of previous illness are thought to be more prone to experience more severe illness due to this virus. Even so, WHO still advises all age groups to always protect themselves from being exposed to the coronavirus.
Top picture source: pixabay.com/users/geralt-9301