Corona Virus has been around for almost a month now, which only means many CoronaVirus myths are circulating faster than Corona Virus facts. These myths have been spreading around like wildfire and everyone has been falling for them but this is where we come in! We are going to help you understand the difference between these coronavirus myths and facts and bust them for you but let us first start with the basics. 

What is Coronavirus?

Coronavirus disease (also known as COVID-19) is an infectious illness caused by a recently identified coronavirus. Many individuals infected with the COVID-19 virus will develop mild to severe respiratory disease and recover without any treatment. Older individuals and those with ongoing medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, asthma, chronic lung disease and cancer, are most likely to have severe problems.

The only way to deter and delay spread is to be well educated about the COVID-19 virus, the illness it produces and how it spreads. Secure yourself and others from contamination by washing your hands or using alcohol-free rubbing regularly and without touching your skin. The COVID-19 virus spreads mainly by particles of saliva or discharge from the nose while an infected person coughs or sneezes, so you must often observe respiratory hygiene (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow).

What are the Symptoms of Covid-19

According to the World Health Organization, the symptoms of Covid-19 are as follows: 

• Fever
• Dry cough
• Fatigue

Other symptoms that are less common are:

• Loss of taste or smell
• Nasal congestion
• Conjunctivitis (also known as red eyes)
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle or joint pain
• Different types of skin rash
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Chills or dizziness

Symptoms of severe Covid-19 disease include:

• Shortness of breath,
• Loss of appetite,
• Confusion,
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest,
• High temperature (above 38 °C or 100.4°F).

Coronavirus Myths

There are many popular myths related to coronavirus that are widely accepted as scientific facts by the people nowadays. Let us unlearn some of the myths:

1. Only older adults and people with preexisting conditions are at risk of coronavirus and its complications

SARS-CoV-2, like other coronaviruses, can be spread to people of any age. However, elderly adults and those with pre-existing health problems, such as diabetes, obesity or asthma, are most likely to become seriously ill. Although people under the age of 40, particularly infants, are less likely to become seriously ill with COVID-19, the disease will lead to serious problems and mortality in everyone.

2. Covid is just like any other flu

SARS-CoV-2 viral infection can cause COVID-19, an infection that can cause flu-like symptoms, such as body aches, fever, and cough. Side effects of either COVID-19 or flu can be moderate, serious, or occasionally fatal. Both diseases may also induce pneumonia. The personal reputation of COVID-19 is, however, more extreme. Different nations have registered different mortality rates and the death rate in the U.S. tends to be about 2.6 per cent. Although scientists are still evaluating the exact mortality rate based on data growth, it is likely to be several times higher than that of seasonal influenza.

3. Anyone that gets Covid-19 dies

This is nothing but just another myth about Coronavirus. As described above, COVID-19 is lethal to a small number of patients who contract a disorder. The WHO has estimated that about 80 per cent of people with COVID-19 undergo a comparatively different type of illness and do not require specialized medical care. Mild signs can include fever, cough, sore throat, weakness, and shortness of breath.

4. Face masks will always protect you against CoronaVirus

Healthcare professionals use highly qualified face masks that fit tightly to safeguard oneself from diseases. Disposable and cloth masks can protect against droplets, but neither can protect against aerosolized particles. The CDC recommends that all people wear cloth face masks in public areas where it is difficult to keep 6 feet or 2 meters away from others. Even when putting on a mask, it is critical to undertake other safety measures, such as not touching the face, biologically trying to distance, and often washing your hands. Surgical masks and N95 Respirators provide greater protection but are reserved for health care workers.

5. Gargling with bleach helps with Covid-19 

People should never put whitewash in their mouths. Gargling chlorine would never have improved a person’s wellbeing. Bleach is corrosive and can cause significant harm. 

6. Garlic is a great antibody against coronavirus

Some studies indicate that garlic can delay the production of some bacterial species. COVID-19 is a fungus, not a bacterium. There is no proof that garlic can defend people against COVID-19.

Facts About Coronavirus

Here are some facts about Corona Virus

How is Covid-19 Spread

SARS-CoV2 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets and aerosols from an infectious agent while they cough, communicate or breathe and are close to other individuals. The virus has also been isolated from the faeces of an affected case, suggesting that faecal transmission can also be a gateway to infection.

Droplets may be inhaled or settle on objects with which others come into contact and are then affected as they enter the nose, mouth or eyes. The virus will live on the surface from a few hours (copper, cardboard) to several days. 

How is a person infected

The contagious duration may begin about two days before symptoms appear, but people are most infectious during the symptomatic period, even if the symptoms are mild and non-specific. 

How severe is Coronavirus

Data from the EU/European Economic Region (from countries with available data) suggest that up to 30 per cent of cases diagnosed with COVID-19 are hospitalized, based on their age, and up to 20 per cent of those hospitalized need ventilation assistance. It is important to remember, though, that those with more extreme symptoms are more likely to be tested than those with less significant symptoms.

Now that you already know the difference between myths related to coronavirus and the facts between covid-19, stay safe. Coronavirus myths are just myths and you have nothing virus about! A lot of Coronavirus myths have been circulating on social media and it is your job as a citizen to fact check them before believing anything. Stay safe!

Also Read: Impact of Covid-19 on Global Economy