There is an abundance of resources online and elsewhere related to COVID-19, and it’s important to stay informed on the latest and most accurate facts. Refer to your local and national authorities on the most up-to-date recommendations and restrictions, and touch base with the WHO’s Advice for Public for universally helpful information. Below, we address several “COVID-19 myths” that have circulated in discussion circles, and seek to clearly and urgently correct them. When a virus is on the loose, facts must go viral, too.

The virus causing COVID-19 was NOT invented in a lab

Researchers believe that SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, jumped from bats (and potentially a second mammal) to humans.

Anyone can get or spread COVID-19

The SARS-CoV-2 virus does not discriminate, which means all prevention measures and treatment should be accessible and equitable.

Wearing a face mask does NOT “activate” a dormant virus in your body

Wearing a mask protects you and others around you from spreading the virus.

5G networks do NOT spread COVID-19—respiratory droplets do

COVID-19 spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, or through contact with contaminated surfaces.

Vaccines do NOT weaken your immune system or make you more susceptible to COVID-19

Vaccines are safe, and train our immune systems to recognize and fight off harmful viruses and bacteria.

A global vaccine will be the best global defense against the COVID-19 pandemic

Eating garlic, taking hot baths, lying in the sun, or drinking alcohol or bleach will NOT protect you from COVID-19.

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