Five misconceptions about coronavirus

When the coronavirus first hit, there was a lot of misinformation floating around about at-home tests and remedies. As time passes, some have disappeared, but new ones keep replacing them. Here are some of the major misconceptions about the pandemic.

Drinking water and gargling with vinegar help kill the virus

Many posts circulate on Facebook, claiming that staying hydrated, keeping your throat moist will help kill the virus. Some others even suggest gargling with water and salt or vinegar. While drinking lots and staying hydrated is important, it will not kill the virus. Drinking will not wash it from your throat, and gargling – whether it is with warm water or vinegar – will not cure it either. However, the latter may help relieve symptoms, as it does with the flu and sore throats, according to the Snopes.

Everyone should wear face masks

As masks started selling out, many took to making their own at home. Medical experts have said before that healthcare workers and those who have been infected – or think they have – need to wear masks. The Hungarian Chief Medical Officer stated on Thursday’s press conference that masks alone do not stop the spread of the virus, and people need to follow hygiene rules. However, if you do decide to wear a mask, please do not overuse it, and if it is homemade, make sure to wash it regularly and to iron it on high temperature.