There is no silver bullet to prevent novel coronavirus

Let’s get this straight. Besides making sure you don’t come in contact with an infected person, practicing good hygiene and staying home as much as possible, there is nothing you can do to prevent getting COVID-19. Nope, there’s no silver bullet, literally. The rampant misinformation is not only detrimental to your pocketbook, but it can also be downright dangerous.

For instance, naturopathic doctor Sherill Sellman claimed that drinking a silver solution will “totally eliminate” the coronavirus COVID-19. “Kills it. Deactivates it,” he said. Four, 4-ounce bottles cost $80.

The director of the Food and Drug Administration stepped in and issued a cease and desist letter that was also signed by the acting associate director of the Federal Trade Commission.

“There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges, or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Thus, the claims cited above are not supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence. You must immediately cease making all such claims,” the letter reads.

One of the ingredients, colloidal silver, is a liquid that contains silver particles. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, it’s peddled as an immune-boosting, disease curing dietary supplement. But, it can be dangerous to your health. Side effects include permanently turning your skin bluish-gray and causing poor absorption of certain drugs and antibiotics.

Then, there’s the widely circulated advice of a so-called “expert” who states that massive quantities of vitamin C will prevent one from getting the coronavirus. He supports his claims stating high doses are being given intravenously in hospitals to COVID-19 patients.

First off, a hospital is a controlled environment. Secondly, the results are far from conclusive as to whether or not it reduces the duration of the illness. And, important to note, it has never been mentioned as a possible cure and never as a prophylactic for viruses.

The daily recommendation for vitamin C for adults is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women. The best way to absorb any vitamin is to get it through your food. Foods high in vitamin C besides citrus fruit include broccoli, bell peppers, cabbage, parsley, cantaloupe, strawberries, tomatoes, and garlic.

“Sometimes called ascorbic acid, vitamin C supports your immune system and helps your body use the iron you get from food,” WebMD says. A medium orange has about 70 milligrams of vitamin C, while a cup of papaya will get you 90 milligrams.

“Vitamin C can cause upset stomach, heartburn, cramps, and headaches in some people,” WebMD says. “High doses of vitamin C can cause more intense symptoms, such as kidney stones and severe diarrhea.”

At best, you’ll eliminate the vitamin your body doesn’t need. At worst you’ll be using up all that hoarded toilet paper. Right? Wrong. Vitamin C can also interfere with your body’s ability to absorb regular medicines or chemotherapy drugs. Interactions can occur with medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, antacids, and blood thinners.

An article in Medical News Today updated on April 6 debunks several common misconceptions about preventing coronavirus. Spraying chlorine or alcohol on the skin does not kill viruses in your body, but it can be harmful, especially if it enters the eyes or mouth. Hairdryers aimed up your nose won’t kill the virus either, but can cause damage to your sinuses.

“There is no evidence that a saline nose rinse protects against respiratory infections. Some research suggests that this technique might reduce the symptoms of acute upper respiratory tract infections, but scientists have not found that it can reduce the risk of infection,” MNT says.

MNT also says that there is absolutely no truth in the suggestion that you can protect yourself by gargling bleach. “There are no circumstances in which gargling bleach might benefit your health. Bleach is corrosive and can cause serious damage.”

Before you put anything on or in your body, do the research. Trusted websites for information about coronavirus include the Centers for Disease Control, Food and Drug Administration, and the World Health Organization. These sites are updated regularly and offer the best advice.

Kathy Hubbard is a member of Bonner General Health Foundation Advisory Council. She can be reached at kathyleehubbard@yahoo.com.