The outbreak of COVID-19 hit a record high in Malaysia, with 566 confirmed cases as of March, 17. This also means that the risk of infection becomes higher now! During this extraordinary period, everyone is trying to protect themselves and their families. However, there are many false and unofficial news on the network. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently published recommendations and statements about these rumours.

1. Can a hot bath prevent COVID-19?

Taking a hot bath will not prevent COVID-19, because your normal body temperature will remain between 36.5°C and 37°C regardless of the temperature of the bath or shower. Conversely, washing your hands frequently is the best way to prevent COVID-19. It can remove the virus from your hands and avoid possible infections when your hands touch your eyes, mouth, and nose.

2. Can UV disinfection lamps kill new coronaviruses?

UV lamps should not be used for the disinfection of hands or other skin areas because UV radiation can cause erythema (skin irritation).

3. Can whole body spray of alcohol kill new coronavirus?

Spraying alcohol throughout the body does not kill viruses that have already entered the body. Spraying such substances may be harmful to clothing, eyes, and mouth. Alcohol and chlorine may be useful for disinfecting various surfaces, but they must be used properly.

4. Can pneumonia vaccine prevent new coronavirus?

Existing pneumonia vaccines on the market cannot prevent new coronaviruses. With the support of WHO, the researchers are working to develop a vaccine against COVID-19.

5. Does regular nose washing with saline help prevent infection with the new coronavirus?

Rinsing the nose with normal saline can help people recover more quickly from the common cold. However, no evidence rinsing the nose with saline can prevent infection with the COVID-19.

6. Are antibiotics effective in preventing and treating new coronaviruses?

Antibiotics are not effective against viruses, only against bacteria. The new coronavirus is a virus, so antibiotics should not be used as a preventive or therapeutic approach.

There are more rumours released by WHO. For more information, click and see part 1.

Other than wearing masks and washing hands, you also need a balanced diet to boost your immunity. If you keep track of the number of confirmed cases, please visit CoronaTracker. If you want to check for the availability of masks, you can check from the website, Where My Mask?

Let's cheer for Malaysia and hope that the epidemic will stabilize as soon as possible!