Covid-19 Myths Debunked

Are all of us at risk of Covid-19? What protects against the virus? Bleach? Pepper? Garlic?

Over the past few months, Covid-19 has been largely covered by the media. We are exposed to a rush of new information every single day. However, many times, this information can be false. This has blurred the borders between fact and myth, leading to uncertainty and confusion in regards to this issue. So, let’s get all the facts.

Fact-checking sources and questioning the information is crucial in today’s world, now more than ever! This infodemic curve shows how we can spot misinformation.

Myth: Only seniors are at risk of the virus

Each and every one of us is susceptible to the virus. While this is the case, seniors or those with pre-existing medical conditions, like asthma or diabetes have a higher risk of being severely impacted. This does not mean, however, that teenagers or young children cannot get it. Therefore, the seniors and the whole community must follow restrictions and stay safe.

Myth: Holding your breath for 10 seconds without discomfort or coughing means that you are healthy

This “test” for Covid-19 has been passed around social media along with many others, making fact-checking even more important. According to this post, if an individual can hold their breath for 10 seconds or more, it shows the absence of fibrosis in their lungs and thus, no virus. Fibrosis is the “thickening or scarring of tissue” in the lungs. However, this is another myth. When infected with a virus, an individual may experience irritation in their airways, making it hard to take a deep breath and hold it. However, this does not have anything to do with fibrosis in the lungs. In addition, someone who is infected may still be able to hold their breath for this period of time, proving the inaccuracy of this test. Testing for the virus is the most accurate way of seeing whether you are positive.

Myth: Covid-19 vaccines contain micro-chips

Among many of the conspiracy theories that have been circulating, there is this one. This myth states that Covid-19 vaccines, like Pfizer, contain a microchip that will help the government track our movements. This is another myth that truly shows the importance of fact-checking. As vaccines have been distributed, Pfizer actually revealed what was in their vaccines. Unsurprisingly, there were no microchips, only one active ingredient known as messenger RNA or mRNA.    

Myth: Antibiotics are effective in preventing or treating Covid-19

Coronaviridae is the family of viruses that cause Covid-19. Bacterial infections can be stopped using antibiotics, however, these are not effective for viruses. Antibiotics often kill the bacteria inside the body or prevent them from reproducing. Therefore, viruses such as the common cold, flu, and Covid-19 cannot be treated with antibiotics. However, sometimes, antibiotics may be given to a Covid-19 patient at a hospital because having a bacterial infection simultaneously is possible.

Myth: The amount of hand sanitizer used does not matter

This may be shocking, however, the amount of hand sanitizer we apply is important. The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed hand sanitizer as an essential medicine, therefore, it is crucial at this time. A palmful of alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be rubbed into our hands for at least 20-30 seconds. This is the correct procedure and should be done to prevent infection.

Myth: Drinking lots of water will kill the virus

According to the information that circulated, if an individual does not drink enough water, the virus is able to get into their windpipe, then their lungs. According to this myth, drinking water at least every 15 minutes will wash down the virus from the throat to the stomach. Here, the stomach acid will kill the virus and the individual will be fine. However, this is a myth that has not been proven to work. Furthermore, this method would only protect the virus that has entered one’s throat, however, many of us breathe through our noses and this approach does not address this issue.

These were a few important myths surrounding Covid-19 debunked. Hopefully, this blog helped you learn something new or helped emphasize the impacts of misinformation. Please remember to always check your sources and spot misinformation before spreading any myths. If you want to debunk more Covid-19 myths, check out this link. It is the WHO’s official website and a great source for information on the pandemic! 

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