The brain fart emitted from presenter Eamonn Holmes on national television yesterday, in which the veteran broadcaster appeared to “not rule out” a connection between 5G telephone technology and the spread of coronavirus has, as you might expect, caused what the media likes to refer to as a “media storm”.
Contagious: Eamonn Holmes is suffering a serious case of BS
Yet such is the vast welter of nonsense and outright bullshit generated by some less-than-well-informed sections of society during the pandemic crisis that WHO – the World Health Organization – has been forced to issue some “myth busters” about the virus.
And some of the “myths”, it is fair to say, are just short of hilarious.
The 5G one is a matter of growing importance, since the arson conducted against some of the mobile phone towers, in this country and across Europe, is seriously affecting communications networks in the areas they are supposed to serve, and which in the midst of the emergency, are now more vital than ever.
WHO says, “5G mobile networks DO NOT spread COVID-19.
“Viruses cannot travel on radio waves or mobile networks. Covid-19 is spreading in many countries that do not have 5G mobile networks.
“Covid-19 is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People can also be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth or nose.”
Straightforward enough science, you might think. Even a morning TV presenter should be able to grasp that.
And as for those thinking that catching some Bank Holiday rays might give them a kind of immunity… well, guess what?
WHO says, “Exposing yourself to the sun or to temperatures higher than 25C degrees DOES NOT prevent the coronavirus disease.
“You can catch covid-19, no matter how sunny or hot the weather is. To protect yourself, make sure you clean your hands frequently and thoroughly and avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose.”
Or stay at home, and stay safe.
WHO has had to fend off a series of less-than-scientific suggestions about covid-19
Then comes a few of the more batshit crazy nonsenses that healthcare staff have been asked about.
WHO says, “Being able to hold your breath for 10 seconds or more without coughing or feeling discomfort DOES NOT mean you are free from the coronavirus disease or any other lung disease.”
Take a deep breath, because this is sure to disappoint some people…
WHO says, “Drinking alcohol does not protect you against covid-19 and can be dangerous.”
And a final one, just in case there is anyone out there who has any doubt…
WHO says, “Taking a hot bath does not prevent the new coronavirus disease.”
For these and more (let’s be frank, slightly worrying) bizarre notions that have grown up around the pandemic, part old wives’ tales, part xenophobic nonsense, click here for WHO’s myth busters page.
Apparently, a good laugh can’t ward off the boogie man either. But at least it does no harm.
Unlike Eamonn Holmes.
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