Every day a new statement is made about how COVID-19 is spread, how it’s treated or how many people have been infected around the world. With so much information available to us 24/7 it’s hard to differentiate between facts and false claims. We outline some rumors and misinformation that is spread in the public and corrected them with information from reliable organizations such as the CDC, FDA and the World Health Organization.

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a new virus, researchers are still studying its effects on humans and animals. Information about it is continuously changing, it’s important to be alert about new statements coming from these reliable sources on how to prevent the spread of the disease and its treatment.

Inaccurate Statements

Ibuprofen Worsens COVID-19

News reports have stated that NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen could worsen COVID-19 symptoms. The FDA is investigating this claim but currently no scientific evidence has been found to support it. The organization advises the public to carefully read the label and consult with a health care professional if you are concerned about taking NSAIDs during the epidemic.

Pets Can Transmit COVID-19

As of March 27 2020, the CDC has no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread to household pets like cats or dogs or that they can infect humans. It’s still advised to be cautious with your pets. If you are COVID-19 positive or are starting to experience symptoms, try to keep petting and snuggling with your pets to a minimum. The CDC states that further evidence and testing is needed to understand how different animals can be infected and transmit COVID-19.

Masks Don’t Work

The CDC is now recommending wearing a cloth face-covering in public places (grocery stores, pharmacies, doctor visit) to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Keep a distance of 6 feet between people, constantly wash your hands and avoid touching your face even while wearing a mask. The public should avoid wearing surgical masks or N-95 respirators, these are supplies that must be reserved to protect healthcare workers who are in constant contact with the virus. The World Health Organization explains how to use and safely discard a mask.

Facts

Not All Businesses Are Closed

Although non-essential businesses have been ordered to close their doors and stop operations, other professionals such as therapists and lawyers are working remotely. If you need to speak with a therapist about your relationship or other personal issues you may be experiencing during this time, contact your insurance provider and ask if a therapist is available for remote consultation. Law firms around the country are also working remotely, such as Panish Shea & Boyle in Los Angeles, who continues to work on new and existing cases and are available to speak with you via email or phone call.

Social Distancing Works

COVID-19 spreads from person to person, even without any symptoms, an infected person could transmit the disease without knowing it. Social distancing means keeping a distance of at least 6 feet between you and another person and avoiding large gatherings if possible. Keeping this distance from people prevents the droplets from an infected person easily reaching another one and passing on the virus. This is the reason why restaurants, shopping malls, concerts, sporting events and schools have been canceled, closed or moved to an online setting.

Domestic Violence Has Increased

18 law enforcement departments in the U.S. report an increase in domestic violence calls in March. People who live in an abusive home are at a higher risk of violence as everyone in the house is ordered to stay at home and the victim is isolated from friends and family. The epidemic has caused many people to lose their jobs and financial problems, stress and fear of the future can all contribute to domestic violence.