What is true and what is not in the flood of information?
On the website of the National Institute of Public Health, many myths about the coronavirus have been dispelled. We summarize some of them, but they are based on people's questions about the virus and its spread, and the answers to them.
Are there any specific medicines to prevent or treat the coronavirus?
No, to date no specific medication has been recommended to prevent or treat the new coronavirus. Some specific treatments are under investigation and will be studied in clinical trials.
Are antibiotics effective in preventing and treating coronavirus?
No. Antibiotics do not work against viruses, only bacteria. The new coronavirus is a virus, so antibiotics should not be used as a means of prevention or treatment.
Is it true that it only affects older people?
No. People of all ages can become infected with the coronavirus. Older people and people with chronic diseases (such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease) are unfortunately more prone to more severe disease after infection. The World Health Organization advises people of all ages to take the most important measures to reduce the chance of infection - especially hand hygiene and avoiding visibly sick people (if they look feverish and cough, snort, sneeze).
No. Hand dryers are not effective in killing the coronavirus. It is true that frequent hand washing with soap and water is important to reduce the chance of contracting the coronavirus. After washing your hands, dry them thoroughly with paper towels or a hand dryer. Ethanol-based disinfectants (more than 60 percent) also provide protection against infection.
If we spray ethanol or chlorine on our skin and clothes, do we destroy the coronavirus?
No. Spraying preparations containing ethanol or chlorine on the body does not destroy viruses that have already entered the body.
Can I get the virus if I receive a package from Italy or any other country where they have confirmed cases?
It's not true. So far, there is no evidence that the virus can survive for long on surfaces such as letters or packages. It needs a living host to survive.
There is currently no evidence that domestic animals and pets, such as dogs and cats, can become infected with the coronavirus. However, it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets.
No. The pneumococcal vaccine and the flu vaccine do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. The virus is new and different and needs its own vaccine.
Does eating garlic prevent infection with the coronavirus?
There is no evidence that eating garlic prevents infection, although it is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties.
There are still many questions among people about how the coronavirus is treated and how it is prevented. You can find more at this link (NIJZ).
