As the impact of coronavirus progresses, our ability to understand the diseases and its causes also increases. In order to bridge the gap between truth and fiction, experts addressed the myths about COVID-19 that surfaced recently. These myths have only added on to the misunderstandings that are circulating around the world.
Here are five of these myths:
- Myth 1: We are getting close to herd immunity
Herd immunity is when the majority of people are immune to a disease so that it makes the spread unlikely. Herd immunity can be achieved through either vaccination or natural infection. In total, 70% of the general population (about 200 million people) will need to recover from COVID-19 to achieve herd immunity. However, this is conditional on whether the COVID-19 immunity is long lasting. Unfortunately, a clear evidence as to whether contracting and recovering from a SARS-CoV-2 infection will lead to long-term immunity that is protective, has not been observed.
- Myth 2: Water transmits COVID-19
According to the WHO, the coronavirus is primarily transmitted by droplets through direct or close contact with an infected person or indirect contact through contaminated surfaces, also known as fomite transmission. The possibility of water transmission – either by drinking water or while swimming – has been widely researched and ruled out. However, it is still important to maintain physical distancing while in swimming pools.
- Myth 3: Bleach and alcohol can cure COVID-19
Drinking or spraying bleach as well as other disinfectants – such as methanol, ethanol and alcohol – on your body does not prevent or cure COVID-19. Health authorities have strongly cautioned against their use, saying they should only be used to disinfect surfaces. “Do not under any circumstance spray or introduce bleach or any other disinfectant into your body,” the WHO said on its website.
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- Myth 4: COVID-19 is caused or exacerbated by 5G
5G is the fifth-generation technology standard for broadband cellular networks. It is a type of radio wave that is digitized, so it improves the transmission and capacity of data.
There is no evidence to suggest a cause-and-effect relationship between radio waves, their frequencies, and viral transmission.
- Myth 5: COVID-19 spreads through shoes and clothes
The risk of coronavirus spreading through shoes and clothes is very low. WHO ruled out this possibility, based on the global tally of infections. Still, as a precautionary measure for general hygiene rules, the WHO recommends leaving your shoes at the entrance to your home, especially in places where infants and small children crawl or play on floors.