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COVID-19 Facts and Myths

Learners are presented some key facts about COVID-19
Most countries around the world have seen cases of COVID-19, and many are experiencing outbreaks. This course is focused on the implications of the pandemic for children’s well-being and protection and aims to support practitioners and policy makers in putting the child’s safety and well-being at the centre of the COVID-19 response. You can explore the COVID-19 virus in detail and stay aware of the latest public health information on the COVID-19 pandemic through the World Health Organization (WHO) website and through your national and local public health authorities.

The images list some myths buster on COVID-19 from the World Health Organization. Fact: Covid-19 is caused by a virus NOT by bacteria: The virus that causes COVID-19 is in a family of viruses called Coronaviridae. Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Some people who become ill with COVID-19 can also develop a bacterial infection as a complication. In this case, antibiotics may be recommended by a healthcare provider. There is currently no licenced medication to cure COVID-19. If you have symptoms, call your health care provider or COVID-19 hotlines for assistance. Question: Does the new corona virus affect older people or are younger people also susceptible? People of all ages can be infected with coronavirus (nCoV-2019). Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus. WHO advise people of all age to take step to protect themselves from the virus, for example by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene. Fact: COVID-19 can be transmitted in areas with hot and humid climates. The COVID-19 virus can be transmitted in any climate, including areas with hot and humid weather. The best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 is by maintaining physical distance of at least 1 metre from others and frequently cleaning your hands. By doing this you eliminate viruses that may be on your hands and avoid infection that could occur by then touching your eyes, mouth and nose. Question: Are there any specific medicines to prevent or treat the new coronavirus? To date, there is no specific medicine recommended to prevent or treat the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV). However, those infected with the virus should receive appropriate care to relieve and treat symptoms and those with severe illness should receive optimized supportive care. Some specific treatments are under investigation, and will be tested through clinical trials. WHO is helping to accelerate research and development efforts with a range of partners.

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This content is taken from The Alliance for Child Protection in Humanitarian Action online course
Protecting Children during Infectious Disease Outbreaks
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