Courtesy of Women’s Medical Center
There are a lot of questions around the Covid19 virus, and a lot of misinformation is being spread. Here are some common myths about Covid19 from Dr. Faheem Younus, the Chief of Infectious Diseases at the University of Maryland UCH.
If you have any questions or concerns, we suggest you call our office – (575) 762-8055.
Myth: If you can hold your breath for ten seconds without discomfort, you don’t have COVID.
Wrong: Most young patients with Coronavirus will be able to hold their breaths for much longer than 10 seconds. And many elderly without the virus won’t be able to do it.
Myth: Coronavirus lives in the throat. So drink lots of water so the virus is pushed into the stomach where the acid will kill it.
Wrong: Virus may gain entry via throat but it penetrates into the host cells. You can’t wash it away. Excessive water will make you run to the toilet.
Myth: Hand sanitizers are better than soap and water.
Wrong: Soap and water actually kills and washes away the virus from skin (it can not penetrate our skin cells) plus it also cleans visible soiling if hands. Don’t worry if Purell was sold out at your supermarket.
Myth: Using the expensive antibacterial soap is better in preventing COVID than regular soap.
Wrong: CoronaVIRUS is not a bacteria, remember? Donate extra money to the needy during this time of hardship. Use regular soap instead.
Myth: One of the best strategies to prevent COVID-19 is to clean every door knob in your home with disinfectants.
Wrong: Hand washing/maintaining 6ft distance is best practice. Unless you’re caring for a COVID patient at home, your home surfaces should not be a big risk.
Myth: Home surfaces and money can transmit the virus.
Wrong: Home surfaces rarely transmit infections. Many bacteria or even cocaine can be found on your currency bills. Disease transmission linked to money is rare, and no major disease outbreaks have started from our ATMs. Give your money away or disinfect it if you’re still not convinced.
Myth: COVID can penetrate through skin. Wear gloves.
Wrong: The virus does not get transmitted through skin. Wearing gloves is a bad idea because virus may accumulate on the glove and if you touch your face it’s easily transmitted. Plus gloves can rip. Handwashing is best!
If you have any questions or concerns, we suggest you call our office
(575) 762-8055
