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Busting The Myths On The Coronavirus Outbreak

Dr. Abhishtita Mudunuri

4 Min Read

The coronavirus outbreak, which is said to have originated from Wuhan city, China, is rapidly spreading in countries across the globe. It has infected thousands and killed hundreds. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared it a viral epidemic and a public health emergency in China.

But it is not just the virus that’s spreading, misinformation and hoaxes related to this infection have dominated social media. Experts say that the spread of false claims is a dangerous development since it is causing unnecessary panic amongst the public. Here are some myths that need to be dispelled about the new coronavirus outbreak.

Myth 1: Animals spread the new coronavirus

Currently, there’s no evidence that animals are carriers for coronavirus. Moreover, it has not been proven that pets such as dogs and cats can spread the infamous virus. However, it is best that you take precautions at all times. Always wash your hands with soap whenever you come in contact with animals. This practice can protect you from other bacterial infections that can be transferred from animals to humans.

coronavirus outbreak myths mfine

Myth 2: Garlic prevents the new coronavirus infection

Garlic is said to have antimicrobial and other potent medicinal properties. It is a superfood and has numerous health benefits. However, presently there is no evidence that suggests that eating garlic can provide protection against this new virus.

coronavirus outbreak garlic mfine

Myth 3: Gargling with mouthwash protect you from this viral infection

No. There is no proof that gargling with mouthwash can keep coronavirus at bay. The role of mouthwash is to kill the bacteria in your mouth and prevent bad breath. But it certainly does not mean that it can protect you from the COVID-19.

coronavirus outbreak mouthwash mfine

Myth 4: Is it not safe to receive letters & packages from China

Yes, it is absolutely safe. People all over the world are receiving parcels from China and are not at risk of contracting this novel virus. WHO experts have reported that coronaviruses do not survive for long inside objects such as letters and packages.

coronavirus outbreak packages mfine

Myth 5: Pneumonia vaccine provides protection against the COVID-19 infection

No. Vaccines for pneumonia and flu do not provide protection against the coronavirus. The virus is new, different from other microbes and will have its own vaccine. Scientists all over the world are working towards developing this vaccine and WHO has lent its full support. But it is recommended that you get immunised for respiratory illnesses to protect your health.

coronavirus outbreak vaccine mfine

Myth 6: Older people are affected by this viral infection

Coronavirus can affect all populations. However, older people with pre-existing medical conditions appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with this infection. WHO has advised everyone to follow good personal hygiene including washing hands frequently, eating healthy and staying away from people who are sneezing and coughing.

coronavirus old people mfine

Myth 7: Herbal or home remedies help treat the coronavirus infection

According to WHO, no specific drug or herbal medicine can treat this viral infection. Those who are infected should receive appropriate care to relieve the symptoms whereas those severely affected should receive optimized supportive care. As mentioned before, it is best to follow good personal hygiene including frequent hand washing, eating home-cooked food, and steering clear from people who are sneezing and coughing.

herbal medicine coronavirus treatment

Bottom line

WHO suggests that it may be too early to declare coronavirus outbreak an international emergency. People are advised to follow good personal hygiene, local safety measures and consult a doctor when experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness.

If you have any questions related to coronavirus, comment below. Our experts will be happy to help.

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Written by

Dr. Abhishtita Mudunuri

Dr. Abhishtita Mudunuri is an Internal Medicine Physician Diabetologist with over 10 years of experience in treating lifestyle disorders like Diabetes, Hypertension, Dyslipidemia, etc. She has worked previously at Columbia Asia, Sunshine Hospitals, and Apollo Group of Hospitals. Currently, she is working as a Senior Manager and Diabetologist at MFine.

Busting The Myths On The Coronavirus Outbreak

Myth 1: Animals spread the new coronavirus

Myth 2: Garlic prevents the new coronavirus infection

Myth 3: Gargling with mouthwash protect you from this viral infection

Myth 4: Is it not safe to receive letters & packages from China

Myth 5: Pneumonia vaccine provides protection against the COVID-19 infection

Myth 6: Older people are affected by this viral infection

Myth 7: Herbal or home remedies help treat the coronavirus infection

Bottom line

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