Debunking some common myths about Covid-19

May 11: As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, a host of untruths has surrounded the topic. Below, we dissect some of the most common myths currently circulating on social media and beyond.

1. Myth: Being able to hold your breath for 10 seconds or more without discomfort means you are free from Covid-19.

Fact: You cannot confirm Covid-19 or any other lung disease with this breathing exercise; it can be even dangerous. The best way to confirm if you have the virus producing Covid-19 disease is with a laboratory test.

2. Myth: It is safer to wear gloves than washing your hands.

Fact: Wearing gloves risks transferring germs from one surface to another and contaminating your hands when removing them. Wearing gloves does not replace cleaning hands. Health workers wear gloves only for specific tasks.

3. Myth: Covid-19 vaccine can cause infertility.

Fact: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that the Covid-19 vaccine could cause infertility in either men or women. Infertility is not known to occur as a result of Covid-19 either.

4. A CT scan is needed for all patients if tested positive for Covid-19.

Fact: Mild Covid-19 cases don’t need CT scans as it can increase exposure to radiation which may increase the risk of cancer in later life. Do a CT scan only when you have moderate illness and require hospitalisation; even then, it is advisable to get a x-ray first.

5. Myth: Homeopathic medicine Aspidosperma Q 20 can be taken as a substitute for oxygen.

Fact: The Ministry of Ayush has disputed this claim, calling it misleading. It further prohibits advertisements with claims for treatment of Covid-19 from unverified sources.

6. Myth: The prolonged use of face masks causes carbon dioxide intoxication or oxygen deficiency.

Fact: The prolonged use of face masks can be uncomfortable. However, it does not lead to carbon dioxide intoxicatio nor oxygen deficiency, when worn properly. Do not re-use a disposable mask and always change it as soon as it gets damp.

7. Myth: Drinking alcohol reduces the risk of infection.

Fact: The WHO have released a response to the series of myths surrounding alcohol and COVID-19. They explain that while alcohol can disinfect the skin, it does not have this effect inside the body. They continue, “Consuming any alcohol poses health risks, but consuming high-strength ethyl alcohol (ethanol), particularly if it has been adulterated with methanol, can result in severe health consequences, including death.” Also, in a fact sheet on the subject, they explain that “Alcohol use, especially heavy use, weakens the immune system — and thus reduces the ability to cope with infectious diseases.”

8. Myth: Vitamin and mineral supplements can cure COVID-19.

Fact: Micronutrients, such as vitamins D and C and zinc, are critical for a well-functioning immune system and play a vital role in promoting health and nutritional well-being. There is currently no guidance on the use of micronutrient supplements as a treatment of COVID-19.

9. Myth: We should wear face masks even while exercising.

Fact: People should NOT wear masks when exercising, as masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably. Sweat can make the mask become wet more quickly which makes it difficult to breathe and promotes the growth of microorganisms.

10. Myth: Taking a hot bath prevents from COVID-19.

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. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose.

11. Myth: Eating garlic prevents us from Covid-19.

Fact: Garlic is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence from the current outbreak that eating garlic has protected people from the new coronavirus.