Myth about alcohol and Covid-19

Myth and Facts

MYTH: Consuming alcohol destroys the virus that causes COVID-19.

FACT: Consuming alcohol will not destroy the virus, and its consumption is likely to increase the health risks if a person becomes infected with the virus. Alcohol  (at a concentration of at least 60% by volume) works as a disinfectant on your skin, but it has no such effect within your system when ingested.

MYTH: Drinking strong alcohol kills the virus in the inhaled air.

FACT: Consumption of alcohol will not kill the virus in the inhaled air; it will not disinfect your mouth and throat, and it will not give you any kind of protection against COVID-19.

MYTH: Alcohol (beer, wine, distilled spirits or herbal alcohol) stimulates immunity and resistance to the virus.

FACT: Alcohol has a deleterious effect on your immune system and will not stimulate immunity and virus resistance.

Alcohol: what to do, and what not to do, during the COVID-19 pandemic

  •  Avoid alcohol altogether so that you do not undermine your own immune system and health and do not risk the health of others.
  • Stay sober so that you can remain vigilant, act quickly and make decisions with a clear head, for yourself and others in your family and community.
  • If you drink, keep your drinking to a minimum and avoid getting intoxicated.