The emergence of coronavirus disease caused by airborne severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus has highlighted the critical role of respiratory personal protective equipment. Although health care workers (HCWs) from all specialties are at a high risk of exposure to the contagion, the risk for ophthalmologists and otolaryngologists is theoretically more, owing to the proximity with the patients during clinical examinations, substantiated by the higher mortality rate among the HCWs associated with these specialties during the initial Wuhan outbreak.

Despite guidelines issued by various agencies for patient care using personal protective equipment, controversies persist regarding the different types of masks and respirators required to protect HCWs during clinics and surgeries.

SO, LET’S BUST A FEW MYTHS, The First Line Defense

You’ve heard them everywhere about COVID-19. From chatter online to discussions with family and friends. It’s just human nature. People want to be optimistic about what can be done and what’s on the horizon for all of us. The result is that folks pass along information — opinions, suppositions, and hearsay — as facts. Sometimes, it doesn’t matter. But then there are occasions when those myths can cause people to ignore significant medical information, or social directives, that impact their health and the health of others. So, let’s replace the myths right now with the facts.

MYTH: Cold Weather Can Prevent the Virus.

FACT: No. There’s no evidence that cold weather or snowy conditions limit the spread of the virus. The fact is, our normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and that’s where the virus is living.

MYTH: Taking a Hot Bath Helps Prevent New COVID-19 Disease.

FACT: It doesn’t. As a matter of fact, if you take a bath in extremely hot water, you run the risk of getting burned.

MYTH: The Virus Only Affects People in Specific Age Groups.

FACT: That’s wrong too. People of all ages can be infected by the new COVID-19. Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, heart disease), appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill. But, young or old, you should still take precautions.

MYTH: Antibiotics Can Be Effective in Preventing or Treating the Virus.

FACT: They can’t. Antibiotics only work against bacteria. Not viruses.

MYTH: Pneumonia Vaccines Can Protect You Against COVID-19.

FACT: They won’t. The COVID-19 is so different, a new vaccine is required. Have no fear! Many talented doctors, globally, are working towards one!

MYTH: COVID-19 Is Limited to Only Specific Areas of the Country.

FACT: Nope. COVID-19 can be transmitted in all areas of our country, including those with hot and humid conditions.

It all comes back to the basics and listening to the experts. The World Health Organization advises people to be proactive in practicing good hand and respiratory hygiene. And equally important, learn the facts about COVID-19 so you can be prepared. Get more tips and information about COVID-19 here.

Rapping up All Above

Thorough hand hygiene after any cough or sneeze is required. The WHO also recommends that individuals wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the toilet or when hands are visibly dirty, before eating, and after blowing one’s nose.

Avoid touching surfaces, especially in public settings or health facilities, in case people infected with COVID-19 have touched them. Clean surfaces regularly with standard disinfectants.
Frequently clean your hands with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.

Stay Safe!