Covid-19 mythbusters check in
RANDBURG – Your Covid-19 myth busters are here to save the day and supply you with some much needed information on the pandemic sweeping the globe.
Part of the panic which has surrounded the coronavirus pandemic has stemmed from a lack of definitive understanding.
Covid-19 is a particular kind of virus which belongs to the coronavirus family. The South African Department of Health has assembled a series of myths and truths regarding the virus. Some of the frequently discussed myths are busted below:
Myth 1: The virus only affects older people.
FALSE. People of all ages can be affected by Covid-19, however those with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes and asthma have a higher chance of being severely ill with the virus.
The World Health Organisation warns people of all ages to take the necessary precautions.
Myth 2: Antibiotics are effective in preventing and treating the new coronavirus, Covid-19.
FALSE. The new coronavirus is a virus and should not be treated using antibiotics. Antibiotics may be administered to hospitalised patients to avoid co-infection.
Myth 3: There are specific medicines to treat and prevent Covid-19.
FALSE: There is still research being done on the cure and prevention of Covid-19. The best which can be done currently is the treating of symptoms.
Myth 4: Eating garlic helps prevent Covid-19 infection.
FALSE: Garlic is a healthy food, however there is no research which has supported this claim.
Myth 5: It is not safe to receive a letter or package from China.
FALSE: It is safe since the coronavirus does not last long on objects like letters or boxes, in accordance to previous research.
Sourced from: www.health.gov.za/index.php/component/phocadownload/category/606
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Notice: Coronavirus reporting at Caxton Local Media aims to combat fake news
Dear reader,
As your local news provider, we have the duty of keeping you factually informed on Covid-19 developments. As you may have noticed, mis- and disinformation (also known as “fake news”) is circulating online. Caxton Local Media is determined to filter through the masses of information doing the rounds and to separate truth from untruth in order to keep you adequately informed. Local newsrooms follow a strict pre-publication fact-checking protocol. A national task team has been established to assist in bringing you credible news reports on Covid-19.
Readers with any comments or queries may contact National Group Editor Irma Green (irma@caxton.co.za) or Legal Adviser Helene Eloff (helene@caxton.co.za).
