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Top 10 Common COVID-19 Myths—Busted!
Even after years of dealing with COVID-19, misinformation continues to spread. Here’s a clear and straightforward breakdown of the most common myths and the real facts behind them.
1. Can spraying alcohol or chlorine on your skin kill the virus inside your body?
Myth: Spraying alcohol or chlorine on your body kills viruses.
Fact: These chemicals are great for disinfecting surfaces—but not for skin. Spraying them on your body won’t kill any viruses inside you and can actually be harmful, especially if they get into your eyes or mouth. The best protection? Handwashing, masks, and vaccines.
2. Is COVID-19 only dangerous for older adults or people with health issues?
Myth: Only seniors and those with preexisting conditions need to worry.
Fact: While older adults and people with conditions like diabetes, obesity, or asthma are at higher risk of severe illness, anyone can get COVID-19, regardless of age. People under 40—yes, even kids—can get sick and experience complications, including long COVID or, in rare cases, death.
3. Can children catch COVID-19?
Myth: Kids can’t get infected.
Fact: Children can get COVID-19. While their symptoms are usually mild or nonexistent, they’re not immune. In some rare cases, children have developed a serious condition called MIS-C (Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children), which has symptoms similar to Kawasaki disease and toxic shock syndrome.
4. Is COVID-19 just like the flu?
Myth: It’s basically the same as the flu.
Fact: While both illnesses can share symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches, COVID-19 is generally more serious. It spreads more easily, can cause more complications, and has a higher death rate than seasonal flu. It’s not “just the flu.”
5. Does everyone who gets COVID-19 die?
Myth: If you catch it, you’re doomed.
Fact: Absolutely false. Most people—around 80%, according to the WHO—recover without needing hospital care. Many experience only mild symptoms, like a sore throat, cough, or fatigue. Some don’t show symptoms at all.
6. Can cats and dogs spread COVID-19?
Myth: Pets are spreading the virus.
Fact: While a few pets have tested positive after close contact with infected humans, there’s no solid evidence that animals are driving the pandemic. According to the CDC, animals are not a significant source of transmission. Human-to-human contact remains the main concern.
7. Do face masks always protect you from getting the virus?
Myth: Wearing any mask makes you completely safe.
Fact: Masks—especially surgical ones and N95 respirators—help reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus, but they’re not foolproof. Cloth and disposable masks mainly block droplets, not airborne particles. That’s why masks should be worn alongside other precautions, like distancing and hand hygiene.
8. Can hand dryers kill the coronavirus?
Myth: Just stick your hands under a dryer and you’re good.
Fact: Hand dryers do not kill the virus. The best way to protect yourself? Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap isn’t available, go for a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
9. Is SARS-CoV-2 just a mutated cold virus?
Myth: It’s just a version of the common cold.
Fact: While some coronaviruses do cause the common cold, SARS-CoV-2 is not one of them. It’s in the same virus family, but it likely jumped from animals to humans, similar to the viruses behind SARS and MERS. It’s much more dangerous than a typical cold.
10. Do you need to be near someone for 10 minutes to catch the virus?
Myth: You won’t get infected unless you’re close to someone for 10 minutes or more.
Fact: Transmission can happen in less than 10 minutes, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated places. The longer you’re close to someone infected, the higher the risk—but it doesn’t take long for the virus to spread.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can using sanitizer on your hands help?
A: Yes! Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is effective when soap and water aren’t available.
Q: Do I need a mask outdoors?
A: It depends. In crowded outdoor areas, a mask helps reduce risk. But in open, well-ventilated spaces, it’s less necessary—especially if you’re vaccinated.
Q: Are vaccines still effective against new variants?
A: Yes, current vaccines offer strong protection against severe illness and hospitalization, even with variants. Boosters enhance this protection.
Q: Can vaccinated people still spread the virus?
A: Yes, though the risk is lower. Breakthrough infections can happen, so it’s still important to take precautions, especially in high-risk settings.
Conclusion: Know the Facts, Not the Fear
COVID-19 brought with it a storm of rumors and myths, but staying informed is the best way to stay safe. Always double-check what you hear with trusted sources like the WHO, CDC, and healthcare professionals. Protect yourself and those around you—not with panic, but with the power of accurate information.