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.