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With information coming out every day on COVID-19, it is easy to be confused and also to be distracted by myths that are widely circulating about the coronavirus. So let’s review the basics of the coronavirus and also seven popular myths that need busting.

What is the coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing respiratory illness in people and others circulating among animals. There are various strands of coronaviruses, and the one that has made headlines recently is referred to as COVID-19. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that it was first detected in Wuhan City, China and has since spread across various parts of China and the world due to person-to-person infection. While much is still being learned about this strand, it is believed to have originated as an animal coronavirus that infected people, which is rare.

How is it spread?

COVID-19 has continued to spread through person-to-person infection throughout China and other parts of the world. Person-to-person infections typically happen between close contact – about six feet or closer. Like many other viruses, it is typically spread through respiratory droplets that are produced when someone coughs or sneezes. These germs can then land in the mouth or nose of another nearby person and be inhaled into the lungs.

Should I be concerned?

The CDC has confirmed numerous cases of COVID-19 in the United States, with most states reporting cases. We continue to monitor the CDC’s report on COVID-19 in the United States for up-to-date statistics as this is constantly changing.

Proper precautions:

Precautions should be taken when traveling anywhere, especially to areas with high infection rates. The status of COVID-19 is changing every day, so continue to monitor the CDC’s list of travel notices before traveling. While U.S. residents need to be aware of all updates and changes with the status of COVID-19, individuals still need to be cognizant of the flu as the United States is experiencing another widespread flu epidemic, and citizens are more likely to encounter it. According to the CDC, since October 2019, there have been 36 million to 51 million flu illnesses, over 17 million flu medical visits, 370,000 flu hospitalizations and at least 22,000 flu deaths in the United States. In contrast, in the same time period (as of Monday morning, March 16, 2020), the CDC has confirmed 1,629 cases of COVID-19 in the United States, resulting in 41 deaths. This number is changing daily, so for the most up-to-date information on coronavirus in the United States, visit the CDC.

7 Myths vs. the Reality

1. Myth: If I get the flu or pneumonia vaccine, I will be more protected from COVID-19. Reality: While you should get these vaccines to protect yourself against the flu and respiratory illnesses, these vaccines will not provide protection against contracting COVID-19. Researchers are in the process of developing a vaccine for COVID-19, but this will likely take some time to approve. In the meantime, continue to use proper hygiene by washing your hands frequently, sanitizing commonly used objects and coughing or sneezing into tissue that is immediately thrown away.
2. Myth: Antibiotics can prevent me from catching COVID-19. Reality: Antibiotics will not help prevent any type of virus, including COVID-19. Antibiotics only work against the fight of bacteria — not viruses.
3. Myth: I need to buy a face mask to protect myself. Reality: A mask is a good way to help prevent the spread of your germs and the virus when you sneeze or cough. However, if you are not sick, wearing a mask will most likely not protect you from contracting a virus or other sickness. Additionally, most people do not know how to wear masks properly and end up touching their faces more, which can increase your chances of contracting the virus. The best thing to do is to wash your hands thoroughly. For best handwashing techniques, follow the CDC’s guide.
4. Myth: I shouldn’t get letters or packages from China because it may have COVID-19 on it. Reality: You can still receive packages and letters without worrying that you may contract COVID-19. According to the CDC, while it may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching an object that has the virus on it and touching your eyes, nose or mouth, it is not thought to be the main way the virus is spread.
5. Myth: Only elderly people are affected by COVID-19. I don’t need to worry about my child catching it. Reality: The virus can make anyone sick, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity. While individuals who are elderly, have pre-existing conditions and are immunocompromised are the most at risk, children can still catch COVID-19. Take all the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family by following the CDC’s recommendation for prevention.
6. Myth: COVID-19 will stop spreading in warmer temperatures. Reality: While certain viruses like the flu do tend to decrease in infection rate during the summer months, we should not assume COVID-19 will do the same.
7. Myth: I should worry about pets or other animals contracting COVID-19. Reality: COVID-19 is believed to have started from an animal source in China. However, the CDC reports there is no evidence to show that pets and animals in the United States might be a source of infection or spread COVID-19. However, it is still best practices to wash your hands after being around animals.

While flu numbers have started to decrease, it isn’t too late to get a flu shot. For patients seeking care for the flu and other contracted viruses, Ochsner offers urgent care virtual visits through Ochsner Anywhere Care, the MyOchsner patient portal which allows you to connect with your Primary Care physician or pediatrician and immediate assistance and guidance through Ochsner On Call line (1-800-231-5257 or 504-842-3155) – a free 24/7 service for advice and health education. If you are advised to visit an office or hospital for an appointment instead of self-treating at home, you should maintain proper hand hygiene, cover coughs, avoiding school/work when sick and take extra precautions by wearing a mask to minimize the risk of spreading or contracting illnesses.