Separate rumors and myths with facts about COVID-19

Myth: The police are writing tickets if you are on the road! 
FACT:  Law enforcement officials will not stop residents who are on their way to or from work or who are out for necessities like going to the pharmacy or getting groceries, or just taking a walk. People gathering in any size group may be asked to social distance or go home. Illinoisans should abstain from all nonessential activities. Adhering to the order will save lives and it is the responsibility of every Illinoisan to do their part.

Myth: The National Guard is mobilizing to keep us at home! 
FACT: No. The Illinois National Guard will be supporting logistics, transportation, and medical response efforts. The Guard will not be enforcing this order.

Myth: Only those over 60 years of age and those with existing health problems are at risk from the Coronavirus 
FACT:  According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), those at higher risk include older adults and people with serious chronic medical conditions. However, symptoms can range from mild to severe with and may have different complications for each individual. The CDC has a list of COVID-19 symptoms you may experience. Please continue to follow the official information from the CDC.

Myth: The Government is sending $1000 checks. Where do I sign up?  
FACT: The U.S. Government is not mailing checks in response to COVID-19 at this time. Anyone who tells you they can get you the money now is a scammer. It’s important that you only trust information coming from official sources. The Federal Trade Commission recently provided more information about this scam and other common COVID-19 related scams on their website.

Myth: There is a National lockdown and the entire Country will be quarantined for 2 weeks. 
FACT: There is no national lockdown.  As with all information online or shared via social media, it is important to verify the source of the information.  You can find the latest information as well as links to additional resources at www.coronavirus.gov. The State of Illinois has issued a “Stay at home” order, with exceptions for essential activities, essential government functions, and essential businesses and operations. All non-essential business and operations must cease, aside from Minimum Basic Operations. Business can continue with employees working from home. Local government units across the state must halt all evictions, and gatherings of more than 10 people are prohibited.

Myth: I Need to Stockpile as many groceries and supplies as I can. 
FACT: Please only buy what your family needs for a week.  It is important to remember that many families may be unable to buy a supply of food and water for weeks in advance. Consumer demand has recently been exceptionally high – especially for grocery, household cleaning, and some healthcare products. Freight flows are not disrupted, but stores need time to restock.

Myth: Kids are immune to COVID-19
FACT: All age groups can become infected. Children are not immune.

Myth: You can get Coronavirus from your dog or cat 
FACT: According to the CDC, In the United States, there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, livestock, or wildlife, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time. However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals. For more information, click HERE

Myth: You can (fill in the blank) to protect yourself from Coronavirus. (This includes taking antibiotics, gargling bleach, taking garlic, etc.) 
FACT: No home remedies can protect against COVID-19.  This includes vitamins, essential oils, or drastic (and dangerous) steps you may have seen on the internet.  Antibiotics do not help either as they only kill bacteria, not viruses.  Practice handwashing, good hygiene, and social distancing to protect yourself.

Myth: I got a flu shot. I am immune. 
FACT: No.  You are not. SARS-CoV-2 is different than other viruses. There is no vaccine to protect against COVID-19.

Myth: Taking drugs like ibuprofen can make COVID-19 worse 
FACT: Official statement from the World Health Organization: “Based on currently available information, WHO does not recommend against the use of ibuprofen. We are also consulting with physicians treating COVID-19 patients and are not aware of reports of any negative effects of ibuprofen, beyond the usual known side effects that limit its use in certain populations.”