COVID-19: 3 Myths About Coronavirus You Must Stop Believing

Myths about coronavirus are often difficult to beat. Some of the most common ones include - COVID-19 is caused by a bacteria; Drinking alcohol can kill coronavirus and eating garlic can help in treating COVID-19. Dr Sylvie Briand of WHO busts some of these myths in its latest IGTV. With pandemic still with us, much longer than any of us would have expected it to be, it is important to get your facts right. Keep reading to know some common myths about coronavirus and COVID-19, which you must stop believing.

Coronavirus myths you must stop believing

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1. COVID-19 is caused by bacteria, and can be cured with the help of antibiotics

As it has been mentioned in the video, this is one of the most common queries on Google. However, this is anything but true. "COVID-19 is caused by a virus, and the same has been proven many times. The virus has been isolated by many laboratories in the world. We even have the genetic sequence data of the virus. So, its not a bacteria," says Dr Briand, Director, Department of Global Infectious Hazard Preparedness.

This is the reason why using antibiotics will not help in treating COVID-19. However, some hospitalised patients are given antibiotics to not treat COVID-19, but to prevent superinfection by other bacteria. "This is because some people are really fragile and they may be at risk of catching other bacterial infection on top of COVID-19," she explains.

COVID-19 is a viral and not bacterial infection
Photo Credit: iStock

Also read: Dialysis During COVID-19: Safety Measures You Should Follow

2. Drinking alcohol sanitise you and can kill coronavirus

Drinking alcohol does not cure and doesn't prevent COVID-19 infection. "The virus is not sensitive to the alcohol we drink. People may be confused because hydroalcoholic gel is used to wash and sanitise hands. But, the alcohol that is in the hydroalcoholic gel is much more concentrated. One must not drink it as it can have serious side effects," Dr Briand asserts.

Also read: Coronavirus Prevention: Why N-95 Masks With Valves Do Not Serve The Purpose- Know Which Mask You Should Wear

3. Garlic protects you from COVID-19

There is no evidence so far that garlic can be used as a treatment for this disease. What we do know is that using garlic in excess (thinking that it will treat COVID-19) is not good for health. Washing hands, wearing a mask in crowded places and maintaining physical distancing are other better measures that can offer protection against COVID-19, says Dr Briand.

COVID-19 was a new disease only a few months ago. Studies are still being conducted in order to know more about the virus. Before announcing any results, it is important to ensure all studies conclude to the same thing.

Also read: Garlic Health Benefits: Know How You Can Use The Herb For Better Heart Health And Stronger Immunity

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.