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Debunking rumors on coronavirus

Facts About COVID-19 | Photo by Soham Parikh | The Wright State Guardian

Facts About COVID-19 | Photo by Soham Parikh | The Wright State Guardian


With the global outbreak of coronavirus putting the world in a situation it hasn’t experienced in decades, information gets obscured and rumors begin to form.

Misconstrued information often causes panic and confusion.

It is important stay up to date with official sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health officials.

Rumors

Every once in a while, it is possible to be put into a texting chain of misinformation.

In the beginning weeks of quarantine and social distancing, texts were sent out with false information of shutdowns in certain areas. If you receive a text from an unknown number claiming the sender has a friend in high places, this invokes panic and fear and is most likely not true.

Do the research and refer to official, verifiable sources.

The flu

Despite its similarities to the flu, there is currently no cure or vaccine specifically for coronavirus. Only those with severe symptoms such as fever, dry cough and respiratory issues should see a medical specialist immediately.

Those showing mild symptoms of the flu are encouraged to practice social distancing and take the necessary vitamins and/or medications to aid the immune system.

Rumors can become dangerous when unqualified sources claim to know a cure or remedy, such as the recent rumor that inhaling the heat from a hair dryer kills the coronavirus.

Matters such as these should not be taken into one’s own hands; visit a health professional.

In terms of prevention, WHO advises to wash hands regularly, maintain physical distance, avoid touching the face, cover mouth when coughing or sneezing, stay home if unwell and refrain from smoking or any activity that weakens the lungs. Nowhere does it involve the inhalation of heat to kill off the virus.

A common assumption regarding the coronavirus is who it affects. Many believe that only the elderly are at risk; while it is true that they are highly susceptible to contracting the virus, it does not only impact the elderly.

Those with compromised, weak immune systems are also at risk.


Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness spread between people in close contact with each other or through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. To protect yourself and those around you, cover coughs and sneezes and avoid contact with the eyes, nose and mouth. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Shaddia Qasem

Former Wright Life Editor

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