New Delhi: With each passing day, the total number of coronavirus cases across the world is rising consistently. And so is the fear that the highly contagious virus will infect all of us is mounting. On the other hand, healthcare systems around the globe have still not come out with a possible effective treatment for COVID-19. Amidst the coronavirus crisis, myths have been making rounds on social media and spreading misinformation very easily. On a daily basis, we all come across one or the other WhatsApp message or group chat in which we see such information being shared randomly. The spread of misinformation in many ways seems to mimic how COVID-19 itself moves through societies — from individual to individual, group to group.
To put an end to all these myths, the World Health Organisation has once again come out with new mythbusters related to the current scenario of Coronavirus. Here is all you need to know:
Should People Wear Masks While Exercising?
According to the World Health Organisation, people should ‘NOT’ wear masks when exercising as masks may reduce the ability to breathe comfortably. Moreover, sweat can make the mask become wet more quickly which makes it difficult to breathe and promotes the growth of microorganisms.
Underlining the importance of social distancing and maintaining appropriate physical distance from one another, WHO says “It is important that people during exercise maintain a healthy physical distance of at least one meter.”
Can shoes Spread The COVID-19 Virus?
WHO says that the likelihood of COVID-19 being spread on shoes and infecting individuals is very low. Fact is that the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is caused by a virus and ‘Not’ by bacteria. The virus that causes COVID-19 is in a family of viruses called Coronaviridae. WHO also adds that as a precautionary measure, particularly in homes where infants and small children crawl or play on floors, one should consider leaving the shoes at the entrance of the home. This will help prevent contact with dirt or any waste that could be carried on the soles of shoes.
Does The Prolonged Use Of Medical Masks Cause CO2 Intoxication Or Oxygen Deficiency?
According to WHO, the prolonged use of medical masks can be uncomfortable. However, it does not lead to CO2 intoxication nor oxygen deficiency. WHO further adds that while wearing a medical mask, make sure it fits properly and that it is tight enough to allow you to breathe normally. It also adds that do not re-use a disposable mask and always change it as soon as it gets damp.
Can Thermal Scanners Detect COVID-19?
No, thermal scanners cannot detect if the person is infected with coronavirus or not, according to WHO. Thermal scanners are effective in detecting people who have a fever i.e. have a higher than normal body temperature.
Adding Pepper To Your Soup Or Other Meals Prevent Or Cure COVID-19
WHO in its myth busters guidelines says that hot peppers in your food, though very tasty, cannot prevent or cure COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself against the new coronavirus is to keep at least 1 metre away from others and to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.
Also Read: Union Ministry Of Health Updates The List Of Symptoms Of COVID-19, Adds Loss Of Smell Or Taste
COVID-19 Can Transmit Through Houseflies
WHO adds, “To date, there is no evidence or information to suggest that the COVID-19 virus transmitted through houseflies. The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. You can also become infected by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands.”
According to the general guidelines by experts and WHO the only way forward to protect one from catching the infection is by keeping at least 1-metre distance from others and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces. WHO also recommends cleaning your hands thoroughly and often and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
Drinking Methanol, Ethanol or Bleach Can Prevent or Cure COVID-19
Fact is that methanol, ethanol, and bleach are poisons. Drinking them can lead to disability and death. Methanol, ethanol, and bleach are sometimes used in cleaning products to kill the virus on surfaces – however, you should never drink them. They will not kill the virus in your body and they will harm your internal organs.
WHO says to protect yourself against COVID-19, disinfect objects and surfaces, especially the ones you touch regularly. You can use diluted bleach or alcohol for that. Make sure you clean your hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.
In Numbers: How Coronavirus Is Spreading In India
The coronavirus pandemic in India is increasing at its peak from the past few days. The country has recently crossed the third grim milestone when the positive COVID-19 cases jump above the 3-lakh mark. According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India’s COVID-19 tally surged to 3,54,065 on June 17. Maharashtra had become the first state to record over 1 lakh coronavirus cases. Moreover, India reported over 2,000 coronavirus deaths on June 17 for the first time after states updated the number of those who died due to the highly contagious disease. The country has so far reported 11,903 deaths. According to the health ministry, the recovery rate is at 52.79 per cent in the country.
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