Most Dangerous Myths About Coronavirus, Debunked
The fake news surrounding the coronavirus is spreading almost as fast as the virus itself. You’ve probably seen some questionable stuff on your own feeds. Since one of the biggest…
ATLANTA, GA – UNDATED: This undated handout photo from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows a microscopic view of the Coronavirus at the CDC in Atlanta, Georgia. According to the CDC the virus that causes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) might be a “previously unrecognized virus from the Coronavirus family.” (Photo by CDC/Getty Images)
The fake news surrounding the coronavirus is spreading almost as fast as the virus itself. You’ve probably seen some questionable stuff on your own feeds. Since one of the biggest things we need to be doing during this pandemic is staying informed, let’s take a moment to dispel some of the biggest myths floating around so far.
- Myth: You can get the coronavirus from mail and packages from China. While Dr. Darshan Shah says it’s theoretically possible, the chances of the virus living long enough on your packages to infect you are very, very slim. "Mechanical, temperature and humidity changes would likely kill the virus before it arrives at your doorstep," says Dr. Shah. That being said, it’s totally understandable to avoid ordering non-essential items if only to give your delivery drivers a break.
- Myth: Drinking water every 15 minutes prevents the coronavirus. Hydration is great, but water alone isn't going to stop you from getting sick. This gem sprouted from a fake study claiming to be from Stanford University who has since come out and clarified that they’ve never made that claim. So the next time you get this message, delete it, and remember that H2O may keep your body healthy, but drinking it every 15-minutes DOES NOT prevent this infection.
- Myth: Vinegar can kill the coronavirus. Studies have shown that vinegar can kill bacteria, but COVID-19 isn’t bacteria. It’s a virus. According to the CDC, the best way to clean something is to wash with soap and water, rinse, and then use an EPA-registered disinfectant like Clorox or Lysol Wipes. Save your vinegar for your salads.
Unfortunately, that only covers a few of the coronavirus myths making the rounds on the internet.
Source: Refinery29
