As conspiracy theories and myths continue to spread about COVID-19, we must find out the truth before making any decisions regarding our medical care. It is estimated that around 40% of coronavirus information on Facebook has been deemed false. This shows how much deceptive or false information is spreading on the internet. 

The public must be able to recognize and research these claims. You should avoid following any medical advice or treatments, unless they are directed from your primary care physician. We will go through the latest facts and myths relating to the coronavirus. 

Claim 1: The antibody test is a reliable way to test your immunity to coronavirus.

Fact: The test does give valuable information about who may have had the virus. However, the accuracy of the antibody test is difficult to determine. It’s too early to determine if coronavirus antibodies equate to an immunity to the virus. Some people who have the virus do become reinfected again, but not very often. 

Claim 2: There will be a second wave of coronavirus. 

Fact: This cannot be confirmed, however, it is likely to happen in the fall. Researchers will be tracking other countries to see if a second wave occurs. There is a possibility of a second wave of the virus if it behaves similarly to the seasonal flu, which activates every year. Getting your annual flu shot is recommended by health care professionals. 

Claim 3: Remdesivir can treat coronavirus symptoms.

Fact: The FDA issued an emergency use authorization for remdesivir. While this is not a cure for COVID-19, it can be beneficial for people with severe symptoms. Remdesivir is an antiviral drug and was previously used as an experimental treatment for Ebola. This drug should only be taken if prescribed by your primary care physician. 

Claim 4: UV radiation can be used to kill the virus.

Fact: This claim is false and dangerous. Health experts say that people should not use UV radiation or disinfectants in order to kill the virus. Applying light to the body can cause burns on the skin and could cause skin cancer. Despite recent news about using radiation or disinfectants, there is never a reason to ingest any of these items. 

Claim 5: Can you catch COVID-19 through drinking tap water or in a swimming pool?

Fact: The CDC says that municipal drinking water systems will remove or inactivate the virus, so you will not catch the virus through drinking tap water. In regards to swimming pools. There has been no evidence so far that the virus can spread in a swimming pool. If disinfectant agents are used to properly maintain the pool, the virus will be inactivated in the pool water.

Claim 6: The flu shot lowers your risk of catching coronavirus.

Fact: This cannot be confirmed, however, it is recommended by the CDC to have your annual flu shot. This is especially important in the fall as the seasonal flu and the coronavirus may be occurring at the same time. This could potentially cause a wave of sickness that could overwhelm health care facilities.  

Claim 7: 5G can lead to the spread of coronavirus.

Fact: This is a new conspiracy theory that is circulating. A myth was started saying that 5G, the ultra-fast wireless technology, can spread the coronavirus. It is believed that the energy from the 5G towers can spread COVID-19. There is no proven connection between this technology and the spreading of the virus. 

Claim 8: Humans can spread COVID-19 to animals. 

Fact: Currently in the U.S., two cats and a dog have tested positive for the coronavirus. Animals can contract the virus from humans, however, there is no evidence that animals can spread the virus to humans. The CDC recommends that you keep your pets indoors and don’t let them interact with others outside. If you have the virus, you should avoid touching your pet to prevent them from getting sick as well.