Fact or Fiction? 6 COVID-19 Statements Explained

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds, there is a lot of uncertainty about the crisis. With so much new information surfacing and new articles being shared online – which seem to give different advice every hour – it can be difficult to be sure that what you’re reading is true. This only adds to the confusion and concern during an already scary time.

Every day, doctors and experts are trying to understand the novel virus and what you can do to stay safe. The safety of our members and fellow North Carolinians is our top priority. To help you make sense of all the information out there, we’ve gathered information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other reputable sources. We’ll debunk some of the most common myths surrounding COVID-19 and provide a few facts that can help you stay healthy.

Myth: Using Only Hand Sanitizer Will Protect You from COVID-19

According to the CDC, the best way to protect yourself is by washing your hands for at least 20 seconds often throughout the day with soap and water. Hand sanitizers are typically used when hand washing is not possible, like when you are running essential errands without running water nearby. Those with a hand sanitizer alcohol percentage of at least 60% are effective in killing viruses like COVID-19.

Myth: Sunlight Can Kill Coronavirus

While it is common for viruses like the flu and common cold to fade as it gets warmer outside, the CDC is not sure if the same is true for COVID-19. Social distancing and hand-washing are essential even in sunlight and warm weather.

Myth: Only Older Adults are at Risk of Getting COVID-19

While the risk of serious disease and death appears to be higher in older adults, they are not the only population at risk. Millennials and Generation X are also vulnerable. Everyone should take appropriate precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. Save lives by avoiding illness with COVID-19, regardless of your age.

Fact: COVID-19 Spreads from Person to Person

COVID-19 is thought to spread between people who are in close contact, or less than six feet apart, through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. That’s why it is important to practice physical distancing.

Fact: You Should Clean and Disinfect Regularly Touched Surfaces Daily

The CDC recommends regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. You can dilute household bleach to kill viruses or use EPA-registered household disinfectants. This includes cleaning doorknobs, light switches, remotes, toilets and sinks.

If a member of your household is infected, there are extra steps you can take to clean your home.

Myth: There are supplements and medications that can prevent COVID-19

There are no supplements or medications that can prevent COVID19. Scientists are working hard to develop a vaccine.

While this is a new reality that we’re living in and we’re learning new things daily, we can hold to what we know is fact. To ensure you’re receiving the most accurate and up-to-date information, make sure to visit the CDC’s COVID-19 resources page.

For more local information, visit the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 response page. For up to date information about our response, visit our What You Need to Know About Coronavirus page.