Coronavirus Myths vs. Truths

There’s a lot of information circulating about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), so it’s important to know what’s true and what’s not. Below, we clarify coronavirus myths and misinformation to help keep you and your family safe during the current outbreak.

Myth –  Coronavirus can be treated with antibiotics.

FALSE. COVID-19, is a viral infection, and viral infections do not get treated with antibiotics. Studies are now being done to explore this topic further, however, there is currently no evidence that antibiotics are effective against coronavirus. 

Myth – There is a cure for coronavirus.

FALSE. Studies and research are currently underway to develop a vaccine, however, there is currently no cure for coronavirus.

Myth – There are some at-home remedies I can do to avoid or treat coronavirus, such as eating garlic or vitamin C.

FALSE. There is no evidence to confirm garlic or vitamin C will protect you from coronavirus. This is one of the most critical coronavirus myths being perpetuated. Above all, as it has been reported in the news, do not use chloroquine that is prescribed by veterinarians. Chloroquine for fish tanks is just for that: fish tanks. People who have used chloroquine have died from taking the product. 

Myth – If I wear a mask or hazmat suit, I will protect myself from coronavirus.

TRUE (to some extent). The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is now recommending that people wear face coverings in public settings where social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. While there’s still much to be learned about coronavirus, it appears many who are infected are spreading the virus – through coughs, sneezes and other respiratory droplets – for 48 hours before they start feeling sick. In light of this new evidence, the primary benefit of covering your nose and mouth with a face covering is to protect others.

Myth – Having just 1 or 2 friends come over to my home is OK.

FALSE. Except for those you may already live with, do not invite even 1 or 2 friends over. The best way to stop the spread of coronavirus is to physically distance yourself from other people by at least 6 feet or more. So play it safe and do not invite friends into your home. 

Myth – I need to stockpile as many groceries and supplies as I can.

FALSE. Please buy only what you and your family need. Consumer demand has been very high, making it difficult for everyone to get what they need and making it feel like there are shortages. 

Myth – Regularly rinsing your nose with saline helps prevent infection with coronavirus.

FALSE. While there is some research to suggest regularly rinsing may help you recover quickly from a cold, there is no evidence that this activity prevents respiratory infections such as coronavirus.

Myth – Cough and a runny nose are the only criteria for a positive COVID-19 screen I should worry about. 

FALSE. The presence of a fever is also an important factor to pay attention to. Remember, it is allergy season and plants are in bloom. It has also been quite windy in certain parts of the country, which may activate seasonal allergies with runny noses, coughing, and itchy eyes, unrelated to coronavirus. 

Myth – I need a six-month supply of my prescriptions.

FALSE. Talk with your provider and/or pharmacist about whether mail order and/or a 90-day supply is the best option for your situation. 

Now that you’re up-to-speed on the facts behind these coronavirus myths, learn more information, like taking care during COVID-19 and coronavirus scams and phishing to be aware of.

Share this article:

Email:

Your Name:

Send Email