Coronavirus: 'no evidence' garlic is cure for disease, says Abu Dhabi government

A number of dubious cures have circulated widely on social media and chat groups

Garlic imported from China is pictured for sale at a traditional market. Courtesy: Reuters  

Garlic is not a cure for the coronavirus, the Abu Dhabi government has reminded the public.

Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre released a statement through a WhatsApp service providing the public with information on Covid-19, the official name given to the latest strain of coronavirus by the World Health Organisation.

Instead, people should focus on personal hygiene like hand washing.

“There is no scientific evidence that eating garlic protects from the Novel Coronavirus. But adhering to personal hygiene habits, such as washing your hands with soap and water constantly, can help prevent the disease,” stated health officials in the social media message.

Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre said earlier this month it would update residents about the latest news on coronavirus cases in the country through messages on WhatsApp. The number is 056 231 2171.

Dubious home remedies for Covid-19 have circulated widely on social media and chat groups.

More than 60,000 people have contracted with the virus across the globe, with the death toll surging beyond 1,300.

There have been eight confirmed cases in the UAE since the outbreak begun.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also refuted rumours that nasal rinsing with saline water, gargling with mouthwash, using hand dryers or putting sesame oil under the noise can prevent or kill the virus.

“Garlic is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties,” tweeted WHO. “However, there is no evidence from the current outbreak that eating garlic has protected people from 2019-nCoV.”

Instead, people should cover their nose and mouth while sneezing, wash their hands regularly with soapy water, and keep their distance from others sneezing.

The organisation has worked to dispel misinformation about the virus with its hashtag #KnowTheFacts .

To date, there is no vaccine or medication that prevents the virus from spreading.