8 Coronavirus Facts You Need To Know

FALSE. Perhaps the most commonly believed myth about coronavirus is that wearing a face mask is a surefire way to protect you from contracting COVID-19. It is not, and there are several reasons why. For starters, thin paper masks, like the one pictured above, are not that effective in blocking out tiny particles from the coughs and sneezes of those around you. Also, most of us who are not used to wearing a mask regularly are likely the touch areas around our face when the mask starts to feel uncomfortable. This only increases your risk of bringing corona-causing germs to your mouth and eyes. Last, the CDC advises that “you do not need to wear a face mask unless you are sick or caring for someone who is sick (and they are not able to wear a face mask).” Face masks are scarce these days and should be prioritized for caregivers.

FALSE. According to WHO, COVID-19 can be transmitted in ALL AREAS, including places with hot and humid weather. No matter what climate you live in, taking preventive measures like washing your hands and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing are critical in staving off the spread of the virus.

FALSE. According to new information issued by the CDC, “some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this occurring with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.” In fact, more than half a dozen studies have shown that asymptomatic carriers of corona are causing substantial amounts of infection.

TRUE. If you’re not able to get near soap and water, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is also an effective way to kill the germs that cause coronavirus. Keep in mind that your hand sanitizer needs to contain at least 60 percent alcohol to get the job done.

FALSE. The CDC recommends you cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throw that tissue away and then wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds to prevent the spread of coronavirus. According to NHS, droplets from sneezes or coughs that contain the virus can live on clothes or skin surfaces for several hours.

FALSE. Garlic is certainly proven to have antimicrobial benefits. However, there is no evidence, based on the current pandemic, that eating garlic has protected people from the new coronavirus.

FALSE. The reason so many sporting events, festivals and annual cultural celebrations have been canceled is because the shutdown of large gatherings is critical in helping stop or slow down the spread of coronavirus. Research conducted at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that “staying at least six feet away from other people lessens your chances of catching COVID-19.” Similarly, self-quarantine (which includes staying at least six feet away from those you live with and not sharing utensils) is highly recommended by health professionals not only for those who are symptomatic but also for people who recently traveled to a heavily infected area such as Italy. It is recommended that you stay quarantined for two weeks in order to determine whether you will become ill and be contagious to other people.

TRUE. Cleaning frequently touched surfaces (tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks and so on) with household cleaners and EPA-registered disinfectants is recommended by the CDC.