We dispel some common myths about COVID-19 and give you additional resources if you are looking to learn more.
Editor’s note: This blog post has been updated to reflect some of the latest myths about COVID-19. Click here for more Shine365 articles about the virus.
With novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases on the rise in Wisconsin and throughout the world, there have been many articles and much content shared on the topic. Unfortunately, this wealth of information has led to some misconceptions about the virus. Below, we dispel some common myths about COVID-19 and give you additional resources if you are looking to learn more.
“5G technology increases or causes the spread of COVID-19”
Theories about 5G cellular technology playing a role in the spread of the virus have started to grow, but this is false. As the World Health Organization (WHO) points out, “Viruses cannot travel on radio waves,” and COVID-19 is spreading in countries that do not have 5G.
“Hydroxychloroquine is an approved treatment for COVID-19”
The FDA recently cautioned against using Hydroxychloroquine outside of a hospital setting or clinical trial due to risk of heart rhythm problems. There is little information on the benefits of the drug when used for COVID-19 and more research is needed.
“Ingesting or drinking substances like bleach will protect you from COVID-19”
Do not introduce cleaning products such as bleach, methanol or ethanol into your body under any circumstances. WHO notes that these substances will have no impact on the virus, are poisonous and will harm your internal organs.
“COVID-19 will go away once the weather gets warmer.”
One common misconception surrounding COVID-19 is that the spread of the virus will decrease once higher temperatures and humidity arrive.
However, it is not yet known whether weather and temperature affect the spread of the virus. While some viruses like the flu, spread more during winter months, it is still possible to become sick from these viruses during other times of the year.
“Only elderly people are at risk.”
As a new virus, no one is immune to COVID-19 until they have been infected. However, it is important to know that some individuals are at a higher risk of getting very sick if they contract the virus. This includes:
- Elderly men and women.
- People who have chronic medical conditions like heart and lung disease or diabetes.
“My pet could give me the coronavirus.”
With so much surrounding COVID-19 still unknown, many individuals may wonder whether their pets can spread the virus. As of this time, the CDC has stated that there is no evidence that companion animals like pets are able to spread COVID-19.
“The virus could spread through the food that I eat.”
Before preparing or eating food, it is important that you practice proper hand hygiene. However, there is a very low risk of the virus being spread from food products and currently no evidence that supports transmission of COVID-19 via food.
Resources:
Wisconsin Department of Health Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Marshfield Clinic Coronavirus Updates
About The Team
Wellness Team
Our team wants you to be in the best health you can be. We’ll provide you with ideas for healthy living and ways to maintain balance, stay fit and take care of you and your family.
So If Hydroxychloroquine is not an approved treatment, when will us People who have taken it for RA and Other illnesses be able to continue their treatment of it? It has been completely withheld over a month ago.
Hi Bonnie,
Thanks for reaching out. A limited supply of hydroxychloroquine is available due to the increased interest in using it as treatment for COVID-19. As a result, this shortage has affected patients who take the medication for diseases like lupus or arthritis. At Marshfield Clinic Health System, we are working to conserve the supply of hydroxychloroquine for use in these patients and those in clinical trials. If you would like to read more, you can click here: https://shine365.marshfieldclinic.org/wellness/hydroxychloroquine/