When misinformation is dangerous to your health

Throughout the novel coronavirus pandemic, misinformation and fake news have circulated more quickly than ever, according to a news release from Lorain County Public Health.

The health department advises residents to be cautious of health products and stories that seem too good to be true, the release said.

Unfortunately, false claims and misinformation continue to circulate.

A dangerous liquid is being sold locally — it is just one of many frauds on the Internet and shared in social circles, the release said.

The Latino community and immigrant community are being targeted to buy a fraudulent and unsafe liquid based on claims that it will prevent or cure COVID-19.

Lorain County Public Health and El Centro De Servicios Soc are working together to warn the Latino and immigrant communities of dangerous scams like this that claim to cure or prevent COVID-19.

“Products and home remedy mixtures that claim to cure or prevent COVID-19 are dangerous and a waste of money,” said Dave Covell, Lorain County Public Health commissioner.

Using a specialized instrument, the health department tested the locally-sold mixture, the release said.

It is a mixture of many dangerous chemicals, including chlorine bleach disinfectant, according to the release.

It is never safe to consume bleach and unknown and unidentified substances.

The safest way to prevent getting sick with COVID-19 is to get the vaccine, Covell said.

“We want all people to get vaccinated,” he said. “We do not want immigration status to prevent people from getting the COVID-19 vaccine.”

Lorain County Public Health released tips from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to identify false or misleading claims. They are:

• Be suspicious of products that claim to treat a wide range of diseases.

• Personal testimonials are no substitute for scientific evidence.

• Few diseases or conditions can be treated quickly, so be suspicious of any therapy claimed as a “quick fix.”

• If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

• “Miracle cures” that claim scientific breakthroughs or contain secret ingredients, are likely a hoax.

A list of COVID-19 vaccine providers in Lorain County can be found at LorainCountyHealth.com/ signup.