2020 has been a whirlwind of a year so far and because of the Covid-19 pandemic, resuming the life we had before the pandemic is not an option. We had to change the way we lived to adapt to the ‘new normal’ way of life.
There is still so much research needed to be done as we’re a long way from understanding the virus. False information and inaccurate chain messages doesn’t help the process either and instead instills unnecessary fear and paranoia. We’ve come up with a list of facts and debunked myths about the virus.
Let’s start off with how face masks and hand sanitizers have become our best friends! They’re an inseparable pair that helps us practice good personal hygiene and reduce the risk of contracting the virus. However, there are exceptional situations where one does not need to wear a mask.
FACT: You should NOT wear a mask when exercising
The World Health Organisation (WHO) said that it may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably. Your mask gets damp quicker when you sweat, making it difficult to breathe and it promotes the growth of microorganisms. The best preventive measure when exercising is to practice social distancing by keeping at least a one meter distance from others.
That being said, prolonged usage of masks when you’re not exercising does not lead to CO2 intoxication nor oxygen deficiency. Never reuse a disposable mask and always dispose of them as soon as it gets damp.
MYTH: Covid-19 can be transmitted through mosquito bites and houseflies
This is FALSE. To date, there has been no evidence to suggest that coronavirus can be transmitted by mosquitoes or houseflies. Covid-19 is a respiratory virus and primarily spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. It can also be transmitted by touching a surface that has been contaminated and then touching your mouth, eyes or nose before washing your hands.
To keep yourself protected, always wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds long; hum the ‘Happy Birthday” song twice to time yourself. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. When you’re out in public, use a hand sanitizer – be it a sanitizer spray or gel.
FACT: Using and digesting bleach or other disinfectant on your body WILL NOT protect you against Covid-19
Under no circumstances should you ever spray or digest these substances to prevent yourself from contracting the virus. It will NOT keep you safe and can be dangerous. Ingesting these substances could lead to poisonous effects. It may also cause irritation and damage to your skin and eye. Bleach and disinfectant spray should only be used to clean and disinfect surfaces. Rubbing alcohol can also be used to disinfect surfaces.
MYTH: Covid-19 only affects the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions
This is a common misconception about coronavirus. Yes, the ederly and those with medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and so on appear to be more susceptible to becoming severely ill from the virus. However, it is not limited to only that group of people.
People of all ages are advised to protect themselves from the virus irregardless of their vulnerability and take precautionary measures. For instance, adhering to the guidelines and SOPs set by the government.
FACT: Expired hand sanitizer can still be effective
According to an article from the Insider, hand sanitizers usually expire after three years from its manufacturing date. This happens when the alcohol content dissolves and drops to below 60%, thus making it less effective at killing germs. However, an unopened hand sanitizer has a higher likelihood of being effective compared to an expired bottle that has already been opened.
MYTH: Eating garlic prevents Covid-19
Despite garlic having many other health benefits, it does not prevent someone from getting infected with Covid-19. There has been no evidence thus far to substantiate that it protects people from the current outbreak.
It’s important to properly educate ourselves on Covid-19 by getting our facts from credible sources such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.
To sum it up, stay safe by avoiding the 3Cs and practicing the 3Ws. The 3cs being – avoid crowded places, confined spaces and close conversations. As for the 3Ws – wear a mask, wash your hands and comply with the MOH warnings. Just by following these guidelines, we can do our part to help flatten the curve and reduce the spread of the virus.
