As a healthcare professional, I sometimes receive COVID-19 myths/rumors which are not only factually inaccurate but also not evidence-based as well. Hence, I would like to clarify/debunk some of the COVID-19 myths/rumors which I've heard: Myth 1: COVID-19 was deliberately created or released by people. Response to Myth 1: This is false. According to an article by Johns Hopkins Medicine [1], viruses can change over time, and occasionally a virus that is common in animals, may undergo mutations and then passes to humans. This is most likely the origin of the current coronavirus. To further support this view, a research paper titled 'The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2' published in the prestigious journal Nature Medicine, mentions that the COVID-19 virus "is not a laboratory construct or a purposefully manipulated virus" [2]. The paper also summarizes that animals such as bats are likely the source of the COVID-19 virus [2]. Further evidence in another research paper published in a highly-regarded and peer-reviewed journal, Nature Communications, found evidence for SARS-CoV-2 related coronaviruses circulating in bats and pangolins in Southeast Asia [3]. Myth 2: Garlic, Vitamins, and Mineral supplements can prevent COVID-19. Response to Myth 2: This is also false. Although garlic is a health food that may have some antimicrobial properties, however, there is no evidence that the consumption of garlic can help prevent COVID-19 [4]. Likewise, vitamins (e.g. C & D) and minerals such as zinc, are important micro-nutrients for maintaining a well-functioning immune system. However, as of now, there is no medical guidance/guidelines on the use of such micronutrient supplements as a treatment of COVID-19 [4]. Myth 3: Hot showers can prevent COVID-19. Response to Myth 3: This is also false. There is no evidence that taking hot showers can prevent COVID-19 infection. Instead, taking hot showers with extremely hot water, may be even detrimental as the hot water may burn you [4]. Instead, the World Health Organization recommends frequently cleaning your hands with soap & water, to protect yourself against COVID-19 [4]. References: [1] Johns Hopkins Medicine. Link: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/2019-novel-coronavirus-myth-versus-fact [2] Nature Medicine. Andersen, K.G., Rambaut, A., Lipkin, W.I. et al. The proximal origin of SARS-CoV-2. Nat Med 26, 450–452 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-020-0820-9 [3] Nature Communications. Wacharapluesadee, S., Tan, C.W., Maneeorn, P. et al. Evidence for SARS-CoV-2 related coronaviruses circulating in bats and pangolins in Southeast Asia. Nat Commun 12, 972 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-021-21240-1 [4] World Health Organization. Link: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-busters