Spreading false news about combating coronavirus; World Health Organization responds to rumors

In recent days, with the announcement of the arrival of the coronavirus in Iran, many rumors about the disease and methods of preventing it that have no scientific basis have been circulating on some Telegram pages.

A few weeks after the outbreak of the coronavirus, now known as COVID-19, the World Health Organization launched a project to combat rumors circulating online, helping to quickly provide accurate information to the public.

The World Health Organization is working with Google, Facebook, TikTok and Twitter to prevent the spread of rumors about the COVID-19 virus, or coronavirus.

The organization shares accurate information with blue graphics on its Instagram account.

Some of the rumors that the World Health Organization has responded to are as follows:

Can the virus be transmitted from pets?

So far, there is no evidence that the virus can be transmitted from pets to humans. However, the World Health Organization recommends washing hands with soap after contact with pets to prevent the spread of E. coli and salmonella bacteria from animals to humans.

Should only the elderly be careful?

No. People of all ages can get coronavirus. However, older adults and those with pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma, are more vulnerable to the risks of contracting the virus.

Does taking antibiotics have any effect?

Antibiotics cannot protect you against the virus. But people with coronavirus in the hospital are given antibiotics to prevent bacterial infections.

What about the vaccine?

Flu or pneumonia vaccines will not protect you against the coronavirus because it is a new virus and a vaccine needs to be developed specifically for it. However, the World Health Organization recommends vaccines against lung diseases, including the diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine, or the pneumonia vaccine, to stay healthy.

Can breathing in thick smoke kill the virus?

No. Breathing in smoke is dangerous and does not prevent the spread of coronavirus. Smoke from fireworks contains toxic gases and is irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs.

They say that consuming garlic is effective.

Consuming garlic is beneficial for health due to its antibacterial effect, but it does not prevent the coronavirus.

Will the virus be eliminated if we apply sesame oil to the skin?

Using sesame oil has no effect on killing the coronavirus. Some chemicals – including chlorine derivatives, ether solvents, 75% ethanol, peracetic acid and chloroform – are disinfectants and kill the virus on surfaces. However, rubbing these substances on the skin or inhaling them is harmful.

Is it dangerous to receive a letter or package from China?

Receiving a letter or package from China is not dangerous because the virus has a short lifespan and cannot remain on surfaces for long.

Can rinsing your nose with salt water also wash away the virus?

The effectiveness of constantly rinsing the nose with salt water in preventing lung infections has not been proven, although it can be effective in reducing cold symptoms and speeding up recovery.

How about gargling with mouthwash?

Gargling with some mouthwashes can only kill some oral germs for a few minutes, but it has no effect on protecting humans against the coronavirus.

What is it like to sleep under an ultraviolet lamp?

No. Ultraviolet lamps have no effect on killing the coronavirus and should never be used to disinfect hands or body skin.

Source: Voice of America