It appears media outlets release new information about COVID-19 every few minutes. While we’re lucky enough to have quick and easy access to such pertinent information, not all news is created equally. Some coronavirus coverage shares false information that does more harm than good. To clear up any confusion about the coronavirus, let’s break down 4 common myths about COVID-19.
1. Sunlight exposure kills COVID-19.
Don’t get your tanning lotion ready quite yet. This statement may excite those who live in warm and sunny climates, but it’s not entirely true. Areas that usually experience higher temperatures, such as Florida, continue to report an increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases. Although certain pathogens respond to temperature changes and ultraviolet rays (UV) exposure, there isn’t enough evidence right now to support that COVID-19 is one of them. Furthermore, excessive UV ray exposure can damage the skin and cause more health problems, so be sure to take precautions if you plan to go outside.
2. Facemasks and gloves stop the spread.
As COVID-19 is spread by person-to-person contact, it’s important to properly protect yourself. If you need to leave your home, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing a cloth facemask to cover your mouth and nose. The facemask should be comfortable to breathe in, but it should also fit snugly and securely. Facemasks help decrease the chances of transmitting the virus, but only if they’re worn properly and frequently sanitized. One must keep in mind that wearing a facemask does not replace social distancing. Furthermore, unless gloves are being properly worn and disposed of, they can defeat the purpose of preventing germs from spreading. Wearing gloves to stores is not recommended, they should only be worn for patient care or disinfecting purposes. The best way to protect yourself against spreading germs is to wear a cloth face cover in public, practice social distancing, and frequently wash your hands.
3. COVID-19 only affects the senior population.
By now, there have been enough reports to deem this statement false. Those with preexisting conditions and compromised immune systems seem to be more vulnerable to the complications of the coronavirus, but there is no evidence that it solely affects the senior population. People of all ages should take all recommended precautions seriously to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
4. Household cleaners destroy COVID-19.
Even though household disinfectants, such as bleach, alcohol, and other cleaning solutions have been proven to kill bacteria and other harmful substances, no evidence suggests a cleaning agent could kill COVID-19. It’s important to only use household disinfectants correctly and never experiment with these items.
There is still a lot to be learned about this evolving illness. Rumors and myths about COVID-19 generate daily, which is why seeking information from reliable resources is vital during this time.
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