(WXYZ) — Misinformation and false claims concerning the coronavirus continues to spread. And that’s why our Chief Health Editor Dr. Partha Nandi joins now to help clear up some of the confusion.
We have a question from Shannon Quay. She asks, “I heard another doctor state that detergent is not soap. Will laundry detergent kill the virus?”
Unfortunately, there are some shady people out there making bogus claims and at times, even posing as medical officials. So you really need to be careful.
Now, as for laundry detergents, yes most will take care of the virus. What the CDC’s guidelines recommend is that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to washing your clothes. And to use the warmest water setting that you possibly can.
Once the clothes are clean, make sure they get completely dried.
Now, if someone is sick in your household, you can still wash their clothes with yours. They don’t have to be separate. The main thing is not to shake the clothes and to wear gloves.
If you don’t have gloves, just wash your hands thoroughly right after. And lastly, it’s also a good idea to disinfect your laundry hampers or use a bag that you can wash once it’s been emptied.
Next question, Frances Curmi asks, “What about D3 supplements?”
Let me point out, that there is no cure at this moment for the coronavirus. But Vitamin D is important for our bodies.
It helps to protect us against conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, infections and immune system disorders. And by now you likely know that these conditions can make it harder for your body to fight the coronavirus.
Now when it comes to research, studies have linked vitamin D to a lower risk of respiratory illness. Which sounds great, but unfortunately not all of the studies show a benefit. So the evidence is not conclusive.
But it’s still a good idea to know your Vitamin D levels and to make sure that you’re not too low.I recommend you talk to your doctor about this. They'll be able to test you and give advice on what to do if you’re low.
Last question is form Lisa Chapman-Edwards, she asks, “If a person had H1N1 do they have some sort of immunity to this virus?”
If you had H1N1 otherwise known as the swine flu, you do not have immunity to the coronavirus. You would only develop immunity to H1N1.
Right now, everyone is at risk of getting COVID-19. Research has not shown that people are naturally immune to this. And that’s why it’s important for us to stay home, practice social distancing, and continue to wash our hands often.
You know, I’m very proud of how our community is handling this. And I know that together, we can get through this.
Additional Coronavirus information and resources:
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View a global coronavirus tracker with data from Johns Hopkins University.
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See all of our Helping Each Other stories.
See complete coverage on our Coronavirus Continuing Coverage page.