Coronavirus rumours: The spread of misinformation via WhatsApp in many ways mimics how Covid-19 itself moves through societies – from individual to individual, group to group
With the total number of coronavirus cases across the world rising consistently, the fear of death and insecurity is mounting. Worse, there is still a big question mark on a possible treatment for Covid-19. And, in the midst of this crisis, misinformation has been spreading virally. On WhatsApp, which boasts over 2 billion users worldwide, and other social messaging networks like Twitter, Facebook and TikTok, the spread of misinformation in many ways seems to mimic how Covid-19 itself moves through societies — from individual to individual, group to group.
Here is afact-check on some of the common myths being circulated on social media and messaging platforms:
1. Myth: Drinking alcohol protects against coronavirus
Fact: Drinking alcohol does not protect you against Covid-19, and can in fact be dangerous. The harmful use of alcohol increases your risk of health problems, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
2. Myth: Thermal scanners can detect coronavirus
Fact: Thermal scanners are effective in detecting people who have a fever. However, they cannot detect people who are infected with Covid-19. There are many causes of fever.
3. Myth: Hydroxychloroquine, Gilead’s remdesivir, and other drugs can cure coronavirus
Fact: While several drug trials are ongoing, there is currently no proof that either hydroxychloroquine or any other drug can cure or prevent Covid-19…
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