A message circulating on WhatsApp, said to contain advice from a worker at Dr Negrin hospital on the island of Gran Canaria, advises the following (ed’s note: this advice is not verified from the hospital).

“The virus is characterised by obstructing respiratory pathways with thick mucous, which solidified and blocks airways and lungs. However, the virus remains in the throat for 3-4 days before it gets to the lungs, so during that time you have an opportunity to kill it off but it takes a few days.

Recommendations are to:

  1. Drink lots of hot liquids: coffee, tea, soups and hot water.
  2. Take a sip of warm water every 20 minutes as this keeps you moth moist and washes any of the virus that might be in your mouth into your stomach, where gastric juices will neutralise it before it can get to the lungs.
  3. Gargle with an antiseptic in warm water each day such as vinegar salt or lemon juice.
  4. The Virus attaches to hair and clothes. Soap and detergents kills it but you are advised to take a bath or shower when you get in from being outdoors. Avoid sitting down anywhere – go straight to the shower.
  5. Wash clothes every day, especially if you’ve been outdoors. If you cant wash clothes daily, hang them in direct sunlight, which neutralises the virus.
  6. Wash metallic surfaces very carefully as the virus can remain viable on these for up to nine days. Take note and be vigilant about touching handrails and door handles etc.
  7. Don’t smoke!
  8. Wash your hands every 20 minutes using any soap that foams. Do this for 20 seconds.
  9. Eat fruits and vegetables – try to elevate zinc levels as well as vitamin C.
  10. Animals do not spread the virus to people – it’s person to person transmission.
  11. Try to avoid getting the common flu because this exacerbates symptoms.
  12. Avoid eating and drinking cold things.
  13. If you feel any discomfort or soreness coming on in your throat, attack it immediately using the above methods.