Five things you need to know: Coronavirus myths

While so much information is going around about the coronavirus (COVID-19), not all of it is true.

From questions about hand dryers to concerns over mosquitoes, there can be a lot of confusing information out there. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization have taken to the internet to stamp out any myths.

Here are five common myths about the coronavirus:

1. Race: Some people believe that the virus impacts individuals of particular races more than others. However, according to the CDC, this disease can make anyone sick, regardless of race or ethnicity.
2. Death sentence: There are some who believe that contracting the virus means they will die. However, the virus isn’t necessarily a death sentence. According to the CDC, the immediate risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus is actually low. The danger of death is mainly for those at high risk of complication, such as patients who are immunocompromised or those older than 65.
3. Sun exposure: According to the World Health Organization, one myth is that exposing  yourself to the sun or higher temperatures can prevent contracting the virus. Individuals can catch the coronavirus no matter the weather or temperature in which they place themselves. Many countries, such as Brazil, have warmer weather and still have reported cases of the virus.
4. Cocktails and corona: The World Health Organization states that frequent or excessive alcohol exposure does not prevent coronavirus contraction. In fact, it can have the opposite result. Those who are consuming alcohol at excessive amounts can increase their chances for complications should they contract the virus.
5. Mosquito: Despite other diereses that can be contracted through mosquito bites, the World Health Organization said the coronavirus is spread primarily through droplets from an infected person. There is currently no evidence that mosquitoes can transmit the disease in any way.

For more information on myths surrounding the coronavirus, visit the CDC and World Health Organization online.

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