With the number of coronavirus cases rising again, the finish line may be further than we thought. COVID-19, commonly referred to as the coronavirus, is responsible for over 300,000 U.S. deaths within the past year. As we continue to learn more about the coronavirus vaccine, it’s important we follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s guidelines and restrictions. In the meantime, we’re here to help educate by busting some common COVID-19 myths.

Myth:
The coronavirus is only dangerous for older people.

Fact:
We know the following is true regarding older people attracting COVID-19:

• While many young people have been affected, the chances of developing severe symptoms increase the older a person is. 
• 80% of reported COVID-related deaths have been among adults aged 65 years or older. ​​​​​​​

However, it’s important to note that COVID-19 can affect anyone—no matter their age. 

• Young people are more likely to develop intense symptoms of COVID-19 if they have an underlying condition, such as asthma or heart disease. 
• From March 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020, 38% of all COVID-19-related deaths fell within the age range of 25 and 44 years old.

Myth:
Once someone catches the virus, they won’t be able to catch it again.

Fact:At this point, there is no scientific proof that an individual cannot contract COVID-19 multiple times. More time and research is needed in order to determine a concrete conclusion. Antibodies are normally present in people 1-3 weeks after initial infection. Antibody tests show the body’s ability to fight off a specific infection, or in this case, COVID-19. We know the time period of immunity varies person-to-person, but a more recent study states that COVID-19 antibodies start to disappear from the body after just two months. Once they disappear completely, a person can become re-infected.

Myth:
If everyone is wearing face masks, then there’s no need to practice social distancing.

Fact:

Face masks can cause particle droplets to fall quickly rather than travel forward toward another person. Although face masks are proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19 up to 80%, they are not entirely reliable for protection. Droplets can’t travel as quickly when blocked by a face mask, but that doesn’t mean they can’t still be in the air. Social distancing combined with face masks result in an even slower spread of COVID-19..

Myth:
Bleach cannot kill COVID-19.

Fact:

When used properly, bleach has the ability to kill COVID-19. While it is not suitable for consumption, it is for appropriate surfaces, such as tables or carpet. The exact bleach solution will depend on the type of surface you are disinfecting, so be sure to view the CDC’s recommendations beforehand.