Liquor Does Not Reduce Coronavirus Risk
The Claim
Consuming alcoholic beverages may help reduce the risk of infection by COVID-19.
News posted on
Emerging story
Social media users on Facebook have shared an image online showing a letter from a hospital in Kansas City that reads: “After extensive research, our findings show that consuming alcoholic beverages may help reduce the risk of infection by the novel coronavirus; COVID-19. Vodka is the most recommended for drinking, cleaning, and sanitizing.”
Another Facebook user wrote a status advising people to drink alcohol before kissing anyone, recommending Smirnoff and adding the hashtag for “coronavirus."
Misbar’s Analysis
The claim is false. Facebook's fact-checking program, a tool the monitors viral posts on the site, flagged the posts containing the claim.
Saint Luke’s Hospital posted on their Facebook page that the reports circulating saying that drinking alcohol can reduce the risk of COVID-19 are not true.
Instead, the hospital advises people to use protective measures such as washing hands frequently, maintaining social distancing, avoiding touching the eyes, nose, and mouth, and practicing respiratory hygiene.
The World Health Organization also addressed the myth, stating that drinking alcohol does not protect people from COVID-19.
