Exploring coronavirus myths

Amid concerns and discussions about the SARS-CoV-2 virus, it is important to remain aware of the coronavirus myths that may circulate and negatively influence our understanding of this virus and the necessary protection measures. Here are some of these myths that we should address:

1. Spraying chlorine or alcohol on the skin kills viruses in the body:

Applying alcohol or chlorine to the body can cause harm, especially if they reach the eyes or are ingested. Although people can use these chemicals to disinfect surfaces, they should not use them on the skin. These products cannot kill viruses in the body.

2. Only the elderly are at risk:

SARS-CoV-2, like other coronaviruses, can infect people of any age. However, the elderly or people with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma or diabetes) are more susceptible to becoming seriously ill.

3. Children cannot get infected with COVID-19:

All age groups can be infected. Most cases, to date, have been in adults, but children are not immune. In fact, preliminary evidence shows that children are just as likely to get infected, but their symptoms tend to be less severe.

4. COVID-19 is the same as the flu:

SARS-CoV-2 causes illnesses that do indeed have flu-like symptoms, such as fever and cough. Similarly, both COVID-19 and the flu can be mild, severe, or, in rare cases, fatal. Both can also lead to pneumonia. However, the overall profile of COVID-19 is more serious. Estimates vary, but its mortality rate appears to be between approximately 1% and 3%.

Although scientists are calculating the exact mortality rate, it is very likely to be higher than that of a seasonal flu.

5. Everyone infected with COVID-19 dies:

This statement is untrue. As mentioned above, COVID-19 is fatal only for a small percentage of infected people.

In a recent report, The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention concluded that 80.9% of COVID-19 cases were mild.

The WHO also reports that about 80% of people will experience a relatively mild form of the disease that will not require specialist hospital treatment.

Mild symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

6. Cats and dogs spread coronavirus:

Currently, there is little evidence that SARS-CoV-2 can infect cats and dogs. However, in Hong Kong, a Pomeranian whose owner had COVID-19 became infected. The dog showed no symptoms. Scientists are debating the importance of this case for the epidemic. For example, Prof. Jonathan Ball, professor of molecular virology at the University of Nottingham in the U.K., says:

“We need to differentiate between actual infection and just detecting the presence of the virus. I still think it is doubtful how relevant it is to the human outbreak, as the vast majority of the global outbreak has been driven by human-to-human transmission.”

He continues: “We need to learn more, but we shouldn’t panic – I doubt it could spread to another dog or another human. The real driver of the outbreak is people.”

7. Masks protect against coronavirus:

Medical staff use professional masks, which fit tightly around the face, to ensure protection against pathogens. However, it is unlikely that disposable face masks offer such protection.

Because these masks do not fit perfectly on the face, the virus can enter the oral and nasal cavity. Also, tiny viral particles can enter through the material. However, if someone has a respiratory illness, wearing a mask can help protect others from infection.

“There is very little evidence that wearing such masks protects the wearer from infection,” explains Dr. Ben Killingley, a consultant in acute medicine and infectious diseases at University College London Hospital in the U.K.

“Moreover, wearing masks can give a false sense of security and lead to ignoring other infection control practices, for example, hand hygiene.”

The WHO recommends that those caring for people with COVID-19, or those suspected of being infected, should wear a mask. In these cases, wearing a mask is effective only if the individual regularly washes their hands by rubbing them properly with alcohol-based solutions or soap and water. Also, when using a (disposable) mask, it is important to use it only once and discard it properly.

8. Hand dryers kill coronavirus:

Hand dryers do not kill coronavirus. The best way to protect yourself and others against the virus is to wash your hands with soap and water or use a disinfectant solution with at least 70% alcohol.

Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coronavirus-myths-explored