The spread of the coronavirus accompanies with it the spread of several myths
ISLAMABAD: The spread of the coronavirus accompanies with it the spread of several myths. This is bound to happen in today’s information age where we not only consume but also produce immense amounts of information and also misinformation. The problem is that these myths have started creating different realities. No one knows what to believe. Messages and images are being forwarded on social media that claim to have the cure for the deadly virus.
Just recently I received a message saying that eating ginger can protect you from Covid-19. Perhaps, the most widely spread rumour is the use of black cumin seeds or Kalonji to fight the deadly effects of the coronavirus. There is another myth that claims the elderly are more susceptible to the virus as a majority of those that have died are these people. The WHO has clarified that this no longer holds true. The virus can affect any age group. Teenagers and children are rampantly getting infected by the deadly virus. Another widespread myth is that those infected will surely die a painful death. This has created much panic around the globe. However, evidence shows that most of the people can recover and there are some that are asymptomatic which means that they don’t show any symptoms. People have also made absurd claims that the virus spreads through mosquito bites but there is no such evidence. These rumours have forced people to do unnecessary things to find a cure. The virus is new and different from other diseases and it needs its own vaccine.
I urge the public to refrain from spreading false information. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine so patience is needed. The higher authorities should take action against those that are spreading fake Covid-19- related news.
Tuba Sheikh
Published in The Express Tribune, April 28th, 2020.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
