Science

Myths vs. facts: How true is coronavirus information on the web?

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Does rinsing your nose with saline protect you?

    According to the World Health Organization, there is no evidence to support claims that a saline solution will "kill” the virus and protect you.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Will gargling mouthwash prevent an infection?

    Certain brands of mouthwash may eliminate particular microbes from your saliva for a few minutes, but, according to the WHO, this does not protect you from the new coronavirus.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Can eating garlic help?

    This dubious claim has been spreading like wildfire across social media. Though it is possible that garlic may have some antimicrobial properties, there is no evidence to suggest from the current coronavirus outbreak that eating this bulb will protect people from the virus.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Can pets spread COVID-19?

    There is no evidence to suggest pets, such as cats and dogs, can be infected or transmit the coronavirus. Regularly washing your hands with soap and water after touching your beloved moggy or pooch will help stop the spread of bacteria that they commonly carry, such as E. coli and salmonella.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Can the corona virus be transmitted via air mail?

    People receiving parcels from China are not at risk of contracting the new coronavirus, as the virus does not survive long on objects. Due to the poor survivability of the coronavirus on surfaces, there is a very low risk of spread from products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Is there a vaccine yet?

    The new coronavirus needs its own vaccine. Pneumonia vaccines such as the pneumococcal and the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine will not protect you against the coronavirus.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Do bleach products protect you?

    Bleach/chlorine-based disinfectants, solvents, 75% ethanol, peracetic acid and chloroform can kill the 2019-nCoV on hard surfaces; however, they have little or no impact if you put them on your skin.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Avoid direct contact!

    To avoid a coronavirus infection, always cook raw foods thoroughly. It is also advisable to avoid direct contact with people who are sick.

  • Infographic myth vs. fact coronavirus

    Keep your hands clean!

    Frequently washing your hands with soap and water can help prevent an infection. You can also use an alcohol-based sanitizing gel instead. If you have to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow. If you have contracted the disease without knowing it, coughing or sneezing in this manner might help to reduce the spread.


Rinse your nose with saline? Reject all packages delivered from China? The internet is full of misinformation about how to protect yourself from the new coronavirus. DW separates fact from fiction.

  • Date 25.02.2020
  • Author Jessie Wingard