Body Talk
Mel Watson
As the Coronovirus pandemic spreads, so have the amount of reports of fake news on line and on social media. Hopefully we can dispel some of those myths for you.
The NHS is currently advising us to stay at home and self isolate for 14 days if you have a high temperature of suffering any of the symptoms associated with the virus. The rest of us are staying at home with only vital trips out for supplies or medical reasons.
Much is still unknown about Covid 19, but the one thing all sufferers seem to have in common is a persistent cough.
Currently rapid home testing kits are not reliable. Until there is an announcement to verify a particular type of kit, do not waste your money as these kits could be giving you false information.
Another myth is to hold your breath for 20 seconds without coughing tightness or discomfort, which proves your lungs are functioning properly. Whilst it may be good fun to do this, again it is an unreliable test as certain people with other pre-existing health conditions such as asthma may not be able to do this, but also may not have the virus.
There is no evidence to suggest that it can be killed by cold or snowy conditions, neither can it be killed off by warm weather as we can see from all the outbreaks in the rest of the world. In other words this is not a seasonal virus.
It is also not true that men are more susceptible than women. This virus does not discriminate between race or gender, so always follow the updated government and NHS guidelines.
The best way to protect yourself is by frequently washing your hands and avoid contact from hands to face, and,where possible avoid going out.
