Amidst the panic created by the pandemic, there is a lot of misinformation circulating that adds up to the crippling anxiety that everyone has been suffering through. It is important to realize the significance of getting oneself testing for COVID-19 and separating the myths from the facts.
Here are the top 10 desi myths about COVID-19 that need to be busted ASAP!
- COVID-19 is like the common cold
COVID-19 is nowhere near to the common cold. People need to realize that it is a new virus that scientists are still researching. Medicines suggested during the treatment are NOT to kill the virus but to lessen the effects caused by its presence in the body - Eating garlic/onion prevents COVID-19
Consumption of garlic/onion may help boost your immunity but there is no stated proof for them to prevent the contraction of virus overall. - Wearing a mask prevents you from contracting the virus
Wearing a mask is one of the many things you need to practice social distancing in order to prevent the further spread of the virus itself. There are special masks like N-95 and N-99 that are usually recommended as they filter out the virus up to a 95% and a 99%. - Drinking lemonade is the key to get rid of COVID-19
Lemons are a known source of vitamin C and antioxidants that boost your immune system, but there is no solid proof to back the statement that drinking lemonade will get “rid” of the virus itself. - Drinking lukewarm water kills the virus
This is another common myth circulated around on WhatsApp messages claiming to be the ultimate guide to COVID. However let it be known that lukewarm water does not “kill” the virus, it only prevents the further spread of infection. - If you are able to hold your breath for 10 seconds straight it means that you do not have COVID-19
Another popular myth that is widely accepted as method of assessing an individual for the Corona Virus is the 10-second breath hold. Yet again, if the diagnosis was this simple, governments would not have been spending millions on testing kits. - Mosquitoes and flies act as a vector to the virus
Till date there is no confirmation to attest that mosquitoes/house flies act as a vector to the virus. COVID-19 attacks the respiratory system and is spread through air-borne droplets (for example through coughing and sneezing) therefore, it is advised by the WHO to wear a mask when entering crowded spaces and to maintain a social distance of 6 feet along with frequent sanitization of hands. - Pets/Animals can be carriers for COVID-19 as well
While there is no solid proof to back up the statement, it is always advised to keep washing your hands regularly to avoid contracting any other diseases from your animal companions. - The virus can be transmitted through goods manufactured in China or any other country reporting COVID-19 cases
Though it may be true that the virus can survive on various surfaces for several hours but it is very unlikely for an object to be a mode of transmission. However, it has been advised by the WHO to disinfect all the surfaces periodically using alcohol based disinfectants (or bleach/chlorine).
COVID-19 is a tool for bio-warfare and is a yahoodi sazish
Whether or not a weapon for bio-warfare; COVID-19 has affected millions across the globe and has been declared as a global pandemic. In such times of uncertainty, it is wiser to ignore such conspiracy theories and focus on factual information released via authentic sources. What other myths have you heard? Let us know in the comments below!
