6 Myths about Coronavirus We Need to Stop Believing

Despite the unprecedented efforts, it has become apparent that the Coronavirus or COVID - 19 has spread across the world. Since the outbreak of Coronavirus in Wuhan China, the world has been on high alert amid the threat of this global pandemic. So far, the Coronavirus has infected 283,061 cases worldwide and has already entered India with 258 cases as stated by the Health ministry.

Woefully, the relentless torrent of information can make it difficult to separate facts from the myths. In the era of the internet, it's hard to beat the convenience of ease of information, even though there is a lot of useful and reliable information online, there is also a lot of misinformation which is inciting panic amongst people. Considering the contagious nature of this disease it's human to be anxious and panic. It's important for us to be reasonable and be cautious, but not frightened. I have compiled some of the most persuasive myths about Coronavirus

1. Surgical mask can protect you from the Coronavirus.

As Coronavirus is spreading in India, people are rushing to buy the surgical mask. There is a 20 fold increase in the price of the surgical mask but the truth is those masks are not designed to block the virus. WHO has recommended that surgical mask can only be used in specific cases where you have cough, fever or difficulty in breathing. So, do not waste money on buying those expensive masks. The mask that has shown effective to block the virus is called 'N95 respirators' which is used by medical professionals and only trained people can properly fit those masks.

2. Consumption of Non-vegetarian foods can cause Coronavirus

Although the Coronavirus has originated from animals in China, it can only be transmitted from humans. AIIMS has confirmed that if your food is properly cooked there is no chance of getting infected from Coronavirus.

3. Garlic can help you prevent from Coronavirus

Even though Garlic is extremely nutritious and has some antimicrobial properties, there is no evidence that it can protect you from Coronavirus infection

4. Package from china can cause Coronavirus

According to the WHO, it is safe to receive packages from China. Coronavirus can remain viable on the surface only for a few hours. It is very unlikely that the virus will persist over a period of weeks in the ambient temperature.

5. Vaccines of pneumonia can protect from Coronavirus

Since the traditional pneumonia is a bacterial infection it will not help you with the viral infection. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. Researchers are still trying to develop a vaccination for the 2019-nCOV.

6. Younger people are not susceptible to Coronavirus

People of all ages are susceptible to Coronavirus. Older people and people who have a weaker immune system and pre-existing medical conditions are more vulnerable to get severely ill with the infection. WHO has advised everyone to practice good hygiene to prevent themselves from getting infected.

Although we are in uncertain times, we don't have to panic. We just have to be alert, not anxious. Regrettably, we live in a world where misinformation is rampant. Do not trust WhatsApp messages, Facebook or Instagram newsfeed blindly confirm the source and seek out information from a credible source. 

Here are some of the protective measures from WHO that you should follow

1. Wash your hands regularly
2. Maintain social distancing
3. Avoid touching your face
4. If you have a fever, cough or difficulty in breathing seek medical advice immediately

Bottom line: Don't panic, follow the above protective measures to protect yourself and your loved ones from Coronavirus.