There’s a lot of information going around when it comes to the new coronavirus (COVID – 19). While some of the information is true, most of it is misleading. Don’t worry, I’m here to help you separate COVID – 19 fact from myths. Read below to learn more.

Myth:

I’m safe because coronavirus can’t survive in hot areas like South Africa.

Fact:

Coronavirus can be transmitted under any climate (hot or cold). In other words, whether you live in South Africa or the United Kingdom, the coronavirus can be transmitted from person to person. Read this to find out more about how the virus is transmitted.

Myth:

I heard that the new coronavirus can be transmitted through mosquito bites.

Fact:

At the moment there is no evidence that you can get infected with the new coronavirus through a mosquito bite. The commonly known way the new coronavirus  can be spread is when you come into contact with droplets from an infected person’s mouth or nose through sneezing and coughing.

Myth:

The thermal scanner can detect if people are infected with the new coronavirus

Fact:

The thermal scanner is only effective in detecting people who have developed a fever (body temperature that’s higher than normal) but it can’t tell you what’s causing the fever.

It takes 2 to 10 days for people who are infected with the coronavirus to get sick (show symptoms) which means that it’s impossible to tell if a person has the virus using just the thermal scanner.

Myth:

If I take a vaccine for respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, I will be able to prevent myself from getting the new coronavirus.

Fact:

While the new coronavirus affects your respiratory system (the organs you need to breathe), it cannot be prevented through these vaccines. This is because COVID – 19 is a new virus outbreak in the coronavirus family and a vaccine will need to be created for it specifically. However, this doesn’t mean that you should not get a vaccine for other known respiratory illnesses like pneumonia.

Myth:

Antibiotics are effective in preventing and treating the new coronavirus

Fact:

Antibiotics only work on bacteria. This means that they won’t be effective in treating viruses such as the new coronavirus (COVID -19). A cure has to be researched and tested for the virus specifically and while we wait for that to happen, we need to take the necessary precautions to avoid infections. These include washing your hands with soap and water, using alcohol-based hand sanitiser, coughing and sneezing into your flexed elbow or tissue and staying home during this lockdown.

The new coronavirus (COVID – 19) outbreak has really changed how we live and understand the world around us. While there’s a lot to still learn about the new corona virus, please make sure that you stay informed. If you are feeling ill, make sure to seek immediate medical attention by calling this number 0800 029 999 or send a WhatsApp “Hi” to 0600123 456.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).