Chatham County Emergency Management Agency– On a daily basis, distinguishing between rumors and factual information on social media can be challenging. With a public health pandemic, such as the COVID-19 outbreak, it is very easy for false information to spread quickly. There are several ads, promotions and websites that prey on vulnerable individuals in an attempt to sell them items to decrease their risk of contracting COVID-19 or offer services that do not exist. Stay on the lookout for promotions that claim their products can treat, prevent or cure the Coronavirus/COVID-19. Chatham County officials are asking everyone to be mindful of the source of the information and to only follow guidance from sites including the Centers for Disease Control, The Georgia Department of Public Health and other local, state or national government agencies.
In a recent press release from Georgia’s Attorney General Chris Carr’s office, Carr said “Scammers may try to take advantage of consumers during a time when fears and health concerns are at an all-time high…At best, these fake cures are simply a waste of money, while at worst, they can have dire consequences.”
According to AG Carr, the following companies have received warning letters from the FTC and FDA for selling unapproved or misbranded products that the companies claimed could treat or prevent the Coronavirus:
- Vital Silver
- Aromatherapy Ltd.
- N-ergetics
- GuruNanda, LLC
- Vivify Holistic Clinic
- Herbal Amy LLC
- The Jim Bakker Show
AG Carr also discussed how the FDA has warned consumers against drinking a product called “Miracle Mineral Solution” or “MMS,” which has been touted as a way to prevent coronavirus and cure a myriad of other illnesses, including cancer and HIV/AIDS. The FDA warns that this product is essentially a “dangerous bleach” that could cause severe vomiting and acute liver failure. Consumers should also be wary of claims that products containing colloidal silver can prevent or cure the Coronavirus. Not only is there no medical evidence supporting these claims, the FDA and National Institutes of Health warn that colloidal silver is not safe to use and can even cause argyria, a bluish-gray skin discoloration that’s typically permanent. If you’re tempted to buy an unproven product or one with uncertain claims, check with your doctor or other health care professional first.
For an updated list of rumors and myths, please visit: https://www.fema.gov/coronavirus-rumor-control
