Fact or Fiction?

Courtesy Darlynn Williams, PR Public Health Nurse

Coronavirus COVID-19 is not a manmade weapon. There is no credible information to support this claim. Researchers are trying to find the exact source of the virus but all indications point to bats as the source.

Only the elderly get infected. False, anyone of any age can be infected. The information available indicates that those under age 60, generally have a milder course of illness. The concern is that younger folks won’t self-isolate when ill and will be the source of infection for others who are at greater risk.

There is a cure for the Coronavirus. False, there is no cure for this virus. Home remedies from eating garlic in large quantities to spraying skin or throat with bleach have circulated. These are not helpful and may cause more damage.

If I had my pneumonia shot, I won’t get as sick. False, the 2 pneumonia vaccines that are available are effective against specific illnesses and COVID-19 is not one of them.

Coronavirus has already gone through our community. False. Many viral illnesses have similar symptoms and we are still in the middle of influenza, rhinovirus and norovirus season. Reports of having coronavirus in Nov-Dec 2019 are incorrect. The virus was identified in China in November and was not identified in the U.S until mid-late January.

The Coronavirus can be killed with heat. While this may be true outside the body, heating the body is not an effective treatment. The use of hot saunas, blow dryers and UV light is not effective and may cause burns.

Prevention is the best medicine. Stay home except for essential needs. When in public try to remain at least 6 feet from other people. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.