CLAIM: Novel coronavirus aka Covid-19 is an Airborne Disease
CONCLUSION: False
EVIDENCE: World Health Organisation (WHO) said coronavirus is not airborne, rather it is transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneeze or speaks.
FULL TEXT: Since February 27, the day the novel coronavirus found its way to Nigeria, there has been quite alot of misconceptions about the pandemic. No doubt the disease caused a lot of panic among citizens. One among many of the misconceptions was that the Virus is airborne. TNG fact checkers attempted to find out from medical experts. For Doctor Haruna Gidado a consultant with the Barau Dikko specialist Hospital Kaduna, the Covid-19 can only be airborne if it is light enough to be carried by air, but its not. “The virus is handicap and can be wiped out with antiseptic” Dr Gidado said.
Another fact announced by the world health organisation on its official twitter handle states; “COVID19 is not airborne. The coronavirus is mainly transmitted through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks.
“To protect yourself: -keep 1m distance from others -disinfect surfaces frequently -wash/rub your Open hands -avoid touching your. These droplets are too heavy to hang in the air. They quickly fall on floors or surfaces.
“You can be infected by breathing in the virus if you are within one meter of a person who has COVID-19. You can be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth before washing your hands.
“To protect yourself, keep at least one meter distance from others and disinfect surfaces that are touched frequently. Regularly clean your hands thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose,” WHO said.
CONCLUSION: The Covid-19 not being an Airborne Disease can be prevented and managed where necessary. Citizens should therefore adhere to safety regulations currently in the media.