Claims (see above-featured image) are circulating on Twitter and WhatsApp that the World Health Organization (WHO) has approved a COVID-19 home remedy by a student from Pondicherry University in India which includes black pepper, ginger and honey.
Background
Ever since the COVID-19 outbreak, a number of questionable social media forwards have surfaced, with claims of cures being found in various parts of the world. However, there is still no cure for the virus and the WHO, through its solidarity trial, is still carrying out clinical trials on various drugs to help find an effective treatment for the virus.
India has so far recorded over 1.5 million positive cases of COVID-19, among them over 33,000 deaths.
Verification
According to the WHO myth busters page, pepper cannot prevent or cure COVID-19.
“Hot peppers in your food, though very tasty, cannot prevent or cure COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself against the new coronavirus is to keep at least 1 metre away from others and to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. It is also beneficial for your general health to maintain a balanced diet, stay well hydrated, exercise regularly and sleep well,” it reads.
The WHO also states: “While some Western, traditional or home remedies may provide comfort and alleviate symptoms of mild COVID-19, there are no medicines that have been shown to prevent or cure the disease. WHO does not recommend self-medication with any medicines, including antibiotics, as a prevention or cure for COVID-19.”
According to the US’s National Institutes of Health (NIH), honey has antimicrobial properties and has been considered a good alternative for antiviral drugs for the treatment of some viral infections.
Speaking at a press conference in Geneva, Dr Michael Ryan, executive director of the WHO Health Emergencies Program, said that ginger and honey could have soothing effects or even provide reassurance during an illness, but it should not be assumed to be effective in treating COVID-19.
Pondicherry University has reportedly dismissed the claim as fake news.
Verdict
The claim that WHO has approved a COVID-19 home remedy by an Indian student is FALSE.
Add comment