30 Myths about Coronavirus 2019

There are a lot of rumors, myths, false theories on one person can combat, alleviate or fight coronavirus 2019 (COVID 2019).

There are over 207,000 cases of coronavirus all over the world spanning all continents except for Antarctica. There were cases in about 170 territories and countries as of (March 18, 2020) 11:00 pm Manila time, based from data from John Hopkins University Center for Systems Science and Engineering.

There were 202 confirmed cases in the Philippines while 17 recorded deaths.

photo credit: tumisu-148124 (pixabay)

30 Myths and Rumors Debunked

30.) Garling Salt Water –  In a recent press conference, Presidential Press Secretary Salvador Panelo told the press that “I have made it a habit to gargle with salt water”. When I have a little cold, I gargle.”

Fact: There is no scientific study or research that garling salt water can fight coronavirus. Plus can be contaminated with animal waste, sewage spills, algae and microbes that are present in untreated salt water.

29. Eating Moringa, Malunggay or Moringa oleifera will help immune system fight coronavirus.

Fact: Malunggay had Vitamins A, C, E, protein, iron, calcium, phosphorus, phytochemicals, and fiber which will aid in boosting one’s immune system. but there is no scientific basis or study that eating moringa or malunggay can kill the virus.

Noni fruit : Photo credit: najibzamri-7973793 (pixabay)

28.) Drinking Noni, Apatot or Morinda citrifolia fruit juice can kill the coronavirus.

Fact: No scientific proof that the noni juice nor fruit can help flight the virus.

27.) Only Asian descent can get the virus.

Fact: Anyone can get the corona virus.

26.) Sunshine, Vitamin D and Eating Citrus.

Fact : No scientific basis or studies that Eating Citrus and Going out to take sunshine does not have any scientific basis.

bananas, photo courtesy: thedigitalartist-202249 (pixabay) 

25.) Eating 1 bananas will keep the virus away. The instant remedy circulated in several social media sites like Facebook, Viber and Twitter. Which prompted some local banana fruit sellers to ran out of bananas.

Fact : Eating banana a day can help improve one’s immune system due to the source of vitamin B-6. However in a post by University of Queensland in Australia that they have not conducted such studies and video which circulated online is not true.

24.) Temperature over 35 degrees Celsius ( 95F) will stop the virus from spreading. Tropical and those living near the equator will slow the spread the virus.

Fact: According to officers from the World Health Organization, this strain of coronavirus can be transmitted regardless of the region’s climate and weather conditions.

23.)  One can get the virus from products and items made in China.

Fact : Experts believe that the virus doesn’t survive for extended periods of time on hard surfaces, although its lifespan still is being studied.

22.) Drinking water every 15 minutes will prevent you from contracting the virus. A post circulating in different social media platforms like Facebook claims that doctors recommend flushing the virus from your body with water and says that stomach acid can kill the virus.

Fact: Although drinking water can dehydrate one’s body, There is no scientific basis nor study that drinking water every 15 minutes can prevent one from getting the virus.

21.) Hand dryers kill the coronavirus.

Fact: World Health Organization and Department of Health (DOH) Philippines,the best method of protecting yourself against the virus is washing your hands with lukewarm water and soap at least 20 to 30 seconds. There are no scientific basis or study that using hand dryer can kill the virus.

photo credit: gadini-388416 ( pixabay)

20.) Spraying yourself with chlorine or alcohol will kill the virus.

Fact: Although alcohol and chlorine can be used in small amounts as disinfectants on hard surfaces, they cannot kill the virus. It can also be harmful when large quantities are ingested.

garlic : photo credit (pixabay)

19.) Eating a lot of garlic or 2 cloves of crush garlic then adding to 1 glass of lukewarm water. In order to avoid getting the virus. Garlic has some antimicrobial properties, which slows the spread of microorganisms.

Fact: local health officials does not have any proof that garlic has helped prevent the spread of coronavirus. There is not enough scientific studies which states that eating garlic can stop the spread of the virus.

 Garlic photo credit : stevepb-282134 (pixabay)

18.) Drinking bleach and alcohol protects you from the virus. Rumors have circulated Facebook and social media sites that drinking bleach prevents people from catching the coronavirus.

Fact: Drinking bleach or alcohol dangerous to a person’s health. This is according to a post from Department of Health (DOH) officials.

photo credit: congerdesign-509903 (pixabay)

17.) Adding ginger to warm water to protect one person from catching the virus. Same with drinking salabat, ginger tea or pito-pito.

Fact: This can help boost the immune system but can not totally fight the virus.

16.) Using a nasal saline rinse will prevent the virus.

Fact: rinsing your nose has not been proven to eliminate the coronavirus or any other respiratory infection.

15.) Taking essential oils, acetic acid, steroids or antibiotics will help. Fact: People taking these without prescription is dangerous .

14.) Chinese food is unsafe to eat right now.

Fact : proper food handling and sanitation is the key.

13.) A surgical face mask will prevent you from getting the virus.

Fact: Ordinary face masks are ineffective in preventing COVID-19.

12.) The virus originated from raw bats or bat soup. videos which circulated online.

11.) It only affects the elderly. People who are elderly or have compromised immune systems are most at risk for severe illness if they contract the virus, according to WHO.

Fact: anyone of any age can contract and spread the virus to others. In the Philippines, a 13 year- old patient living in Quezon City got infected.

10.) The COVID-19 vaccine almost is ready.

Fact: It may take months or at least a year for scientists to create a vaccine.

9.) Mineral supplements can destroy the virus.

Fact: There are no known proof that mineral supplement can cure the coronavirus.

8.) The virus was manufactured in a lab and deliberately released.

Fact: This had circulated in several online sites, some television stations and even well-known senator made some personal comments. It had not been proven that the virus came from laboratory and man-made.

7.) Ultraviolet disinfection lamps kill the virus on your skin. Fact: According to WHO, the best way to sterilize your hands is soap, water and observing proper hand washing and social distancing.

6.) The use of colloidal silver was promoted on televangelist Jim Bakker’s show. Colloidal silver is tiny particles of the metal suspended in liquid. The televangelist also sells bucket meals.

Fact: United States health authorities that there is no evidence this type of silver solution is effective for any health condition. More importantly, including kidney damage,allergic reaction and possible blood poisoning.

5.) Drinking hot water to taking hot baths will help fight the coronavirus.

Fact: There were no proven nor scientific studies conducted.

4.) Coronavirus 2019 is airborne.

Fact : The Department of Health (DOH) Philippines clarified. It was Department of Health( DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, in an interview, said a recent World Health Organization (WHO) article about the novel coronavirus considered only hospital settings or in enclosed room.

dog and cat (photo courtesy of pixabay) free-photos-242387

3.) Cats, Dogs and Pets spread the Virus.

Fact: World Health Organisation says there is no evidence that pets can be infected with the coronavirus.

A dog, which belonged to a patient who had COVID-19, tested negative for the virus last week, the city’s Hong Kong’s Agriculture Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD).

2.) Consuming 1 tablespoon a day of Coconut virgin coconut oil (VCO) can help boost immune system.

Fact: Although there are studies that VCO can boost immune system. “We have heard very good studies with regard to its ability to neutralize the viruses, but for the COVID- 19, it is not clear,” said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III in an interview with CNN Philippines confirming the collaboration with Singapore.

Tawa-tawa is said to cure dengue patients

1.) Tawa-tawa plant, snakeweed or Euphorbia hirta– Consuming or boiling plant extract to fight combat the virus.

Fact: No scientific studies nor research had proven that this plant can cure conoravirus.

Here are some of the tips given by Center for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), Department of Health (DOH-Philippines), John Hopkins and University of the Philippines.

1.) Social distancing and give at least 1 meter distance from people.

2.) Wash you hands frequently with soap, water for at least 20 to 30 seconds. Try to complete the song ” Happy Birthday ” two times!

3.) Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth and observe good hygiene.

4.) Cover your cough or sneeze with tissue then properly dispose the tissue in trash or sneeze into your elbow.

5.) Avoid spitting anywhere.

6.) Clean and disinfect frequently.

7.) Stay at Home.

Sources and References: Department of Health ( Philippines), John Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center ( John Hopkins University), World Health Organization, Center of Disease Control (CDC), University of the Philippines, Hong Kong’s Agriculture Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), CNN Philippine interview, PCOO, personal interviews with several health care professionals and epidemiologist.

Eating Experience at Megawatt Restaurant

41- A N. Domingo Street near corner Gilmore Avenue – San Juan City , Metro Manila -Philippines

Megawatt Restaurant and LG2 Auto Station

We always passed along N. Domingo street on my way to our relatives living in New Manila and San Juan . The place is very accessible by just commuting jeepney from Cubao ( New Arayat Market via N. Domingo street and Robinson’s Place , Magnolia ) a short walk from Light Rail Transit 2 Gilmore station , Jeepney plying via Aurora boulevard routes like Maikina -Stop and Shop, Cubao-Divisoria .

Ms. Anne Valle Purificacion together with an employee of the restaurant

  The restaurant  thematic styles includes anything that had electricity from solar panel tables, electric wires and cables lines, light bulbs, signage and even electric utility costumes for their employees .  The target market of the restaurant are students, yuppies , millennials and young professionals from 17 to 35 , but we saw some older people eating at this restaurant .

restaurant interior

The restaurant is located on the second floor beside LG 2Auto Station . This quaint restaurant can accommodate about 36 to 38 people at any given time .  Its growing clientele includes the residents of New Manila, San Juan, Cubao , Quezon City and even from Mandaluyong area. There is also a display corner where collectible items such as toy figurines,  commemorative items, limited collector’s edition sports shoes and key chains are sold to anyone that is interested .

eye catching signage

The restaurant had started their soft opening last month and is getting a lot of positive reviews and accolades from leading  food and travel review sites like Zomato and Trip Advisor .  The restaurant specializes in a fusion of Texas- Mexican and Asian Fusion blend of food.

Appetizer– Nacho Rizo Php 158 per serving , good for 3 to 4 people

Nacho Rizo is one of the nice fusion type of nachos  that we have tasted . It had a combination of nachos , Pangasinan longganisa bits ( which had a different taste ) and with generous toppings of cheese . For those who wish to add toppings, there is also a choice of different dipping sauces.

signature fried chicken 6 with fries

I prefer their American southern -style fried chicken de-boned and fried in batter mixture   . The fried chicken had 11 spices  . When freshly cooked , One can smell the unique aroma because of the spices , This chicken menu also comes with chips or french fries and its own dipping sauce.  Price range is depending on the number of chicken and combo mix , Price range is from Php 128 to Php 499.00

cheese,cheese cheese pizza

cheese, cheese, cheese pizza is a thin crust type with several kinds of cheese included . It includes feta, sharp, cheddar , guyere cheese, parmigiano and mozzarella cheese.  Php 315,  Ideal for 3 to 5 people sharing.

pizza seafood garlic

 Seafood pizza ingredients includes scallop , squid , shrimp and fish in special sauce . It had a topping of freshly sliced tomatoes and herbs. This is one of the MUST Try at this place.  Php 318 ideal for 3 to 5 people sharing.

29 karat surf and turf burrito

29 Karat Surf and Turf Burrito is also a MUST Try burrito . It had a combination Meltique steak with edible gold cream and foie gras ( fatty liver of goose )  Php 819 per order

vegan pesto burrito

ideal for those vegetarian Php 180 per order

AMP burger

AMP stands for Angus Megawatt Patty , the hamburger bun was custom made and topped with egg and hash brown . Ideal for 1 to 2 person Php 255 per order

crunchy mushroom burger

This is another hit among the patrons of the place , It cost Php 295 per order

Environmental Advocacy and Energy Conservation

solar panels

The restaurant partners decided  to install 2 solar panels which provides all their light requirements during their operation. It reduces as much as 20 to 30% of their energy consumption and saves them electricity bills.

signature ice tea ( black currant tea ) Php 88 and brewed coffee called E=MC2 Php 65

They  also use paper trays for serving dishes  . The restaurant may also be reserve for special occasions , corporate meetings, team building or just a simple get together .

Ms. Joyce Esteban -Marketing Manager

Ms. Joyce Esteban is holding their signature black currant tea- one of the best sellers and natural flavored ice tea. Those who wanted to try Texan-Mexican style of food , must check this out .

Contact : 639325012987 / 5012987

Restaurant Operations- Monday to Sunday

Monday to Saturday – 11:00am until 9:00pm Sunday 9:00am until 9:00pm

Facebook Page : Megawatt

 

 

A Botanic Garden and Farm

Portion of the resort -style farm

This is a private farm garden owned by one of Metro Manila’s famous politician . The tour group was escorted by a security group upon reaching the place.

Koi pond

The group saw a lot of collections ranging from family pictures, paintings , antiques,  potteries, furniture, santos, jars, figurines, furniture , books   and the south east Asian  style inspired  architecture in  each of the pavilion like structures which resembles Bali in Indonesia , Bangkok  or even  in Mainland China .

Asian inspired pavilion guarded by Chinese- Fu dogs

There  is like a big botanic garden which had themed landscape from European style manicured lawn and themed portions which separates expensive palms,  adeniums, ornamental plants, shrubs and flowering trees including several aviaries .

Shade house filled with blooming Dendrobium anosmum locally known as

( sanggumay ), Vanda hybrids, Vanda teres and native orchids

There are also several big green houses which housed the collections of cacti, succulents, orchids, bromeliads,  ferns, cycads , aroids  and  anthuriums.

According to one of the caretakers, this is like a wonderland of plants from different parts of the world. The collection of the exotic plants spanned over 30 years which started during the pre-martial law days .

The group was treated to a sumptuous buffet style lunch which offered the best from the area.The group were very happy to spend some time in the resort style farm . Photo opportunities and small chit chat with the gracious hosts were the done after the lunch break.

man -made lagoon planted with lotus

There are several man-made pond and lagoons within the property which serves as a planting area for lotus, water lilies and were Peking ducks swim.

colorful service  vehicle

The group needed a small service vehicle in order to tour the entire property.

Before the end of the  day the group was again treated for a light afternoon snacks which consists of native rice cakes, young coconut pie , nuts and soft drinks.

crucifixion tableau scene late 19th century

According to the owner , they are planning to open the property to the public for a fee in a few years to come . The place is perfect for weddings, parties, location shooting , photo opportunity, convention ,  meeting place  or simply a place to relax and  to admire the wonders of nature.