Coronavirus Myths … DEBUNKED!
Over the past few weeks, some certainly interesting preventions for the coronavirus (COVID-19) have been suggested.
However, what is true? How can I protect myself, my family and friends? Today we will debunk and go through some of the most common coronavirus myths based some research.
“Coronavirus only affects the elderly”
People who are older or who have pre-existing medical conditions are more likely to become severely ill due to their compromised immune system. Whilst the majority of young, healthy people will only experience mild symptoms like a cough, people of any age can become very sick. Everyone should take precautions to protect themselves from the virus and slow the spread.
“It’s no more dangerous than the flu”
Current estimates suggest that coronavirus has a mortality rate of about 1%. Seasonal flu usually has a mortality rate of about 0.1%, which means coronavirus is about 10 times more deadly than seasonal flu.
“Wearing a mask will protect you from the coronavirus”
Coronavirus is not airborne and airborne spread of the virus has not been reported. A mask may protect you from the very small chance that droplets from an infected patient enter your body. This debate is not about if they protect you, it is about if our medical workers have enough.
Our medical workers need these masks to work safely and if their access to masks is limited due to shortages, their safety and the safety of those they treat may be compromised. If you have a mask, great! If you don’t, it’s not a necessity so don’t worry. If you still want to buy masks, consider buying as few as possible. Check out Health.gov for more information!
“Current vaccines for the flu will protect you”
Many scientists are saying the body treats COVID-19 like it’s the flu, but current flu vaccines will NOT combat COVID-19. However, our hospitals are annually flooded with patients during the yearly cold and flu season and this year, hospitals will also have to treat COVID-19 patients. So get vaccinated to reduce your chance of the flu and hopefully reduce the load on the already overworked health system!
“Antibiotics treat and prevent COVID-19”
Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections not viral infections like COVID-19. There is currently no vaccines or medicine for COVID-19. Following government advice on social distancing and good personal hygiene is our best weapon against the spread of COVID-19!
Further Information
For more information, head to https://www.health.gov.au/ for the Government’s daily reports and plans to deal with COVID-19 and https://www.abc.net.au/news/story-streams/coronavirus/ for live updates!
The SRC’s Coronavirus Working Group will be continuing to provide you all with all the information you need to know about COVID-19 and how it will affect us. Stay tuned for more information!
