Do not circulate misleading information that COVID-19 is cured by steam therapy or by drinking lemon and water as COVID is a killer virus

Please do not circulate misleading information that COVID-19 is cured by steam therapy or by drinking lemon and water as COVID is a killer virus and you need more than steam to treat it.

Some people continue to circulate misinformation and disinformation in social media platforms and messenger groups that people can kill the virus by having steam therapy in 70 degrees celsius of water. One even claimed a family doctor had recommended that.

Some are unfortunately believing that and are arriving late or dead at the hospitals.

The Ministry of Health stresses that steam therapy and drinking hot water are not the treatment for severe COVID-19 and does not protect one from contracting COVID-19.

It says inhaling steam (kuvui) and keeping hydrated with warm drinks are commonly used as home therapy to provide relief from a congested nasal passage, and short-term instant relief from symptoms of a cold or inflamed sinuses or mild COVID-19 symptoms.

However, severe COVID-19 is a medical emergency, and relying completely on home remedies can delay urgent medical treatment.

If you have severe COVID-19, please go to your nearest health facility immediately or call toll-free number 165.

The symptoms of severe COVID are having trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, severe headaches for a few days, people getting confused or unable to wake up or stay awake and developing pale, grey or blue discolouration of skin, lips or nail beds.