5 myths about coronavirus (COVID-19) debunked

As the world continues to fight the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) disease and more cases are being reported every day, the need of the hour is to remain calm and not pay heed to unverified information, while taking the recommended preventive measures. 

While health authorities around the world are striving to find a solution to contain the disease, a large part of the responsibility to combat this global health emergency also falls upon the public.

By this, it is meant that people should refrain from buying into false information related to the epidemic.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has debunked some of the biggest myths related to COVID-19.

The myths against the facts are as follows:

MYTH # 1: COVID-19 virus cannot be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates

FACT: COVID-19 can spread in areas with hot and humid climates.

WHO says current evidence suggests that the virus can spread in all areas, despite climatic or weather conditions.

The global health body recommends that every individual takes precautionary measures against the infection.

“The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth, and nose,” it states.

MYTH # 2: Cold weather and snow can kill the new coronavirus

FACT: Cold weather and snow CANNOT kill the new coronavirus

There is no reason to believe that cold weather can kill the new coronavirus or other diseases, WHO has underlined.

The human body temperature remains around 36.5 to 37 degrees Celsius, despite external weather conditions.

MYTH # 3: Taking a hot bath prevents COVID-19

FACT: Taking a hot bath does not prevent COVID-19

A hot bath does not shield you from contracting the infection.

Regardless of the temperature of your bath or shower, the normal body temperature remains around 36.5 to 37 degrees Celsius.

“Actually, taking a hot bath with extremely hot water can be harmful, as it can burn you,” says WHO, reiterating that the most effective measure against the virus is frequent hand cleaning.

MYTH # 4: The novel coronavirus can be transmitted through goods manufactured in China or any other COVID-19-affected country

FACT: The novel coronavirus CANNOT be transmitted through goods manufactured in China or any other COVID-19-affected country

While COVID-19 can settle on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days (depending on the type of surface), it is highly unlikely that the virus will remain on a surface after being moved, traveled, and exposed to varying conditions as well as temperatures.

“If you think a surface may be contaminated, use a disinfectant to clean it. After touching it, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water,” WHO suggests.

MYTH # 5: The new coronavirus can spread through mosquito bites.

FACT: The new coronavirus CANNOT be transmitted through mosquito bites.

Until now there has been no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 could spread through mosquitoes bites.

“The new coronavirus is a respiratory virus which spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose,” WHO highlights.

Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself. 

---

Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content.

Instagram - @qatarliving

Twitter - @qatarliving

Facebook - Qatar Living

Source: WHO