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Fact or fiction: Coronavirus myths, debunked

Know the facts about coronavirus.

by Advertiser
Know the facts about coronavirus.

As COVID-19, also called novel coronavirus, sweeps across the nation, experts urge people to stay inside as much as possible. Keeping a social distance from others and isolating is the one thing all experts agree on as a strategy for slowing and hopefully stopping the spread of the virus. 

So many of us are on social media sharing stories about coping with the virus and how to combat it, how to stay safe and what remedies to use, but it’s often difficult to determine what’s fact and what’s fiction when so much information is in front of us. Here are some of the common coronavirus myths, debunked.

Myth: A face mask can protect you from the virus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that wearing a personal protective equipment like a face mask is not recommended for routine use. While wearing a mask may make you feel safer, the surgical masks don’t prevent the virus. However, if you are sick, they can prevent spreading your virus to others. The CDC says that if you are sick and do need to leave the home for a doctor’s appointment, a face mask is recommended for the safety of others.

Myth: The weather can affect the spread of the virus

While the myth that hot and humid climates slow down the spread of the virus and that cold weather kills it has been circulating since we first heard of COVID-19, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the novel coronavirus can indeed be spread in areas with hot and humid climates. Furthermore, because the human body temperature stays at about 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, that cold weather outside is not a factor. The most effective way to protect yourself is to wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces. 

Myth: The flu vaccine prevents novel coronavirus

The WHO and the CDC report that the pneumococcal vaccine and the flu vaccine do not protect you against this virus. Because this virus is unlike any other, it needs its own vaccine, which is now in development. However, because this virus can cause severe lung congestion, getting the flu vaccine can help protect you from respiratory illness which may weaken your system, leaving you more vulnerable to coronavirus and its symptoms. 

Myth: If you don’t have symptoms, you don’t have the virus

Many who have contracted the virus do not yet show symptoms or exhibit mild symptoms. The virus is spread through close person-to-person contact of less than six feet, and when an infected person coughs or sneezes and respiratory droplets land on others and are inhaled. 

Myth: You can’t take a walk outside

Even areas hit hard by the virus are still encouraging a walk outside, provided you keep that safe distance of at least six feet from others as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A walk in the sunshine will boost mood and get you that important exercise. Do take precautions like not stopping to chit-chat with an acquaintance, and do take along a pair of gloves and sanitizer or wipes in case you encounter any surfaces. Watch for and stay away from those around you who may be coughing.

Myth: Only older people get novel coronavirus

Make no mistake: all age groups are susceptible to the virus. Older people, as well as those with preexisting conditions like asthma and heart disease are more vulnerable to the effects of coronavirus and may have more severe symptoms than healthier people if they do get the virus. 

Both WHO and the CDC recommend practicing self-isolation, social distancing of at least six feet and proper sanitation and hygiene including wiping down surfaces with antibacterial solutions and washing hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds. The CDC also recommends that you avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands and cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then immediately dispose of the tissue. 

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