Quiz: Guess Whether These Coronavirus Facts Are True Or False

True. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the disease COVID-19 is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2.

False. Antibiotics work against bacteria, not viruses. COVID-19 is caused by a virus (SARS-CoV-2), so antibiotics are ineffective unless there is a secondary bacterial infection. (Source: CDC)

True. Studies have shown that SARS-CoV-2 can remain viable on plastic and stainless steel for up to 72 hours, on cardboard for up to 24 hours, and on copper for 4 hours. (Source: NEJM study, March 2020)

False. People of all ages, including children, can be infected with SARS-CoV-2. While children tend to have milder symptoms, they can still contract and spread the virus. (Source: CDC)

False. None of the authorized COVID-19 vaccines contain live virus. They cannot cause COVID-19. Some people may experience side effects (like fever or fatigue) as the immune system responds, but that is not the disease. (Source: WHO)

True. Anosmia (loss of smell) and ageusia (loss of taste) are distinctive symptoms of COVID-19. Many patients report these symptoms, sometimes as the only sign of infection. (Source: CDC)

False. Global mortality rates have varied but are far lower than 10%. By mid-2021, the WHO estimated the infection fatality rate (IFR) between 0.5% and 1% in many settings, with case fatality rates (CFR) around 2–3% depending on testing. 10% is an overestimate. (Source: WHO, Johns Hopkins University)

True. Keeping physical distance (about 6 feet or 2 meters) reduces the risk of inhaling respiratory droplets containing the virus from an infected person. It is a key public health measure. (Source: CDC)

False. The scientific consensus, including from WHO and major virology studies, indicates that SARS-CoV-2 likely originated naturally in bats and may have passed through an intermediate animal host. There is no evidence of lab engineering. (Source: WHO, Nature Medicine, 2020)

True. People infected with SARS-CoV-2 who never develop symptoms (asymptomatic) can still transmit the virus to others. This is why universal mask-wearing and distancing are important. (Source: CDC, WHO)

False. Large randomized controlled trials (e.g., RECOVERY trial, WHO SOLIDARITY trial) found that hydroxychloroquine does not reduce mortality or shorten hospital stays for COVID-19. It is not approved as a treatment. (Source: NIH, WHO)

True. Masks reduce the release of respiratory droplets and aerosols from an infected person and can also protect the wearer. Multiple studies confirm mask-wearing reduces community transmission. (Source: CDC, WHO, Lancet meta-analysis 2021)