As COVID-19 continues to spread, so do rumors and myths. While disease centers and experts scramble to research the virus so they can develop a vaccine, we’ve learned there are a few things we can do to help prevent it. However, it’s important to separate the facts from the fiction regarding coronavirus prevention.
Below are some of the most common myths and some expert opinions about them.
Myth 1: Spraying Alcohol or Chlorine on Your Body Kills Coronaviruses
Some people have taken to spraying their body with chlorine and alcohol for coronavirus prevention. While these products may be good for disinfecting some surfaces, chlorine and alcohol cannot kill viruses already in your body. Spraying them on yourself or clothes can cause harm to your eyes, mouth and other mucous membranes in your body.
Myth #2: Hand Dryers Kill Human Coronaviruses
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) hand dryers do not kill human coronaviruses. While one of the fundamentals of coronavirus prevention is simply to wash your hands thoroughly throughout the day, hand dryers are not part of the protocol. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Myth #3: Ultraviolet Disinfection Lamps Kill Coronaviruses
While hospitals and medical facilities use ultraviolet (UV) light to sterilize microbes on surfaces, it is not safe for use on human skin. According to WHO, UV light can cause skin irritation and damage.
Myth #4: Thermal Scanners Detect Coronavirus Infection
While thermal scanners detect fevers, they do not specifically detect coronaviruses. Since people suffering from colds and the flu may also get a fever, thermal scanners are not an accurate means of coronavirus detection. Since it takes between two and 14 days for people infected with COVID-19 to show symptoms and develop a fever, thermal scanners will not detect anything in people not yet showing symptoms.
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