The COVID-19 pandemic introduced unprecedented challenges and, unfortunately, a wave of misinformation. At AMPAC USA, we prioritize clear, factual communication. Let’s debunk some common myths about COVID-19.
Myth: Hand dryers can kill the COVID-19 virus.
Fact: No. Hand dryers are ineffective. To effectively prevent transmission, wash hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, and then dry with paper towels. This is the proven method.
Myth: Ultraviolet (UV) lamps are effective in killing COVID-19.
Fact: Do not use UV lamps on your skin; it is harmful. While UV-C light can disinfect surfaces, it should never be used on people.
Myth: Spraying chlorine or alcohol on my body will help kill COVID-19.
Fact: This is dangerous. Spraying chemicals like chlorine or alcohol on your body is useless against COVID-19 and harmful to skin, eyes, mouth, and lungs. These substances are for surface disinfection only. Seek medical help immediately if you are exposed to these chemicals.
Myth: I’ll get COVID-19 from a package received from China.
Fact: Unlikely. The virus does not survive long on surfaces. If you are cautious, let packages sit for a few hours. Direct infection from mail is extremely rare.
Myth: My pet will infect me with COVID-19.
Fact: Your pets will not transmit COVID-19. However, always wash your hands after handling animals to prevent the spread of other bacteria, such as Salmonella. Good basic hygiene is always advisable.
Myth: Having had pneumonia, or a pneumonia vaccine, means you can’t catch COVID-19.
Fact: Pneumonia and COVID-19 are distinct illnesses. A pneumonia vaccine offers no immunity against SARS-CoV-2.
Myth: Saline nasal rinses will protect me from COVID-19.
Fact: No scientific evidence supports this claim. Nasal rinses do not prevent viral infection.
Myth: Eating garlic regularly will prevent COVID-19.
Fact: Garlic is healthy, but it has no proven effect against COVID-19. Enjoy it, but do not rely on it for viral protection.
Myth: Applying sesame oil to my body will protect me from COVID-19.
Fact: Sesame oil will not kill this virus. Stick to proven hygiene practices.
Myth: COVID-19 only impacts older adults.
Fact: This virus affects individuals of all ages. However, those with underlying conditions are more vulnerable to severe outcomes.
Myth: Antibiotics can treat COVID-19.
Fact: No. COVID-19 is a virus; antibiotics treat bacterial infections. Using them against a virus is ineffective and fosters antibiotic resistance.
Myth: Wearing a mask guarantees you won’t get COVID-19.
Fact: Masks primarily prevent infected individuals from spreading the virus. If you are sick, wear a mask. N95 respirators are recommended for healthcare professionals. For the general public, proper masking reduces community spread.
Myth: COVID-19 is just like a bad cold.
Fact: While both are caused by coronaviruses, COVID-19 is far more dangerous than a common cold. It can overwhelm bodily systems and lead to severe complications, unlike a typical cold.
Myth: Hot climates will prevent COVID-19 spread.
Fact: This is incorrect. Temperature has no significant impact on viral transmission. Hot regions have experienced outbreaks, demonstrating this misconception.
Myth: Taking frequent showers or baths will prevent COVID-19.
Fact: Good hygiene is vital, but showering more will not prevent a respiratory virus. Frequent, thorough handwashing with soap and clean water remains the primary defense.
Myth: Mosquitoes can spread COVID-19.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. COVID-19 spreads via respiratory droplets, not insect bites.
Key Takeaways on COVID-19
Accurate information is paramount during a health crisis. We advocate for checking facts from trusted sources. AMPAC USA was proud to supply researchers with high purity lab water—essential for diagnostics and vaccine development. Stay informed and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions: Emergency Water Purification
What is the most effective way to kill the COVID-19 virus on my hands?
The most effective method to kill the COVID-19 virus on your hands is to wash them thoroughly with soap and pure water. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. Always dry your hands with a paper towel to ensure all germs are removed.
Is it safe to spray chlorine or alcohol on my body to kill the COVID-19 virus?
No, spraying chlorine or alcohol on your body is not safe and will not kill the COVID-19 virus if you’ve been exposed. These substances can cause harm to your skin, mouth, eyes, and lungs. Alcohol and bleach should only be used for disinfecting surfaces, not for personal sterilization.
Can I contract COVID-19 from packages or letters received from affected areas?
No, the COVID-19 virus does not survive for extended periods on packages or letters. Therefore, the risk of infection from mail or deliveries is extremely low. As an extra precaution, you may choose to quarantine packages for a few hours or days before handling them.
Can my household pet infect me with the COVID-19 virus?
No, there is no evidence that pets can transmit the COVID-19 virus to humans. However, it is always a smart practice to wash your hands with pure water and soap after interacting with pets to prevent the transmission of other common bacteria, such as Salmonella.
Do UV lamps or saline nasal rinses protect against COVID-19?
Neither UV lamps nor saline nasal rinses are effective in protecting against COVID-19. Unwanted exposure to UV lamps can cause skin irritation, and there is no scientific evidence to suggest nasal rinses offer any protection from the virus.
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- Best Drinking Water by State: Which US States Have the Best Water Quality?
Conclusion
Most of the COVID-19 myths making the rounds — chlorine sprays, UV lamps on skin, catching it from packages — did more harm than the virus they were supposedly stopping. The facts were never complicated: wash your hands with soap and clean water, use a properly formulated sanitizer, and let actual science guide precautions instead of panic. Clean water access, whether from the tap or through home filtration, stayed one of the simplest and most effective defenses the whole time. Our water scarcity resource covers more on protecting access to clean water, or contact info@ampac1.com or (909) 548-4900 with questions about home water treatment.
References
- World Health Organization. “Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public.” WHO, [Accessed date: 2023]. https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “COVID-19: Myth vs. Fact.” CDC, [Accessed date: 2023]. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/myths-facts.html
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. “National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.” EPA, [Accessed date: 2023]. https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/national-primary-drinking-water-regulations
- World Health Organization. “Guidelines for drinking-water quality.” WHO, [Accessed date: 2023]. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241549950
AMPAC USA engineers custom water purification systems for commercial, industrial, and emergency applications — from 500 GPD to multi-million GPD. Trusted by municipalities, military, and industry worldwide.
