KUALA NERUS: The public has been advised to stop sharing unverified news on Covid-19 including claims that popular East Coast clear fish soup better known as "ikan singgang" could treat the disease.
Universiti Malaya’s Tropical Infectious Diseases & Education Centre (TIDREC) director Prof Dr Sazaly Abu Bakar said apart from ikan singgang, curry dish was also claimed to contain properties to fight the virus.
“It was claimed that ikan singgang could treat Covid-19 as it contains potent ingredients such as turmeric and galangal which could fight certain microbes.
“Curry dish, meanwhile, was claimed to have the properties to fight Covid-19 and treat the sufferers. It was also claimed that India records a lower number of cases because curry was popular among the people,” he said at a forum titled "Covid-19: Between Speculations and Reality" at Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), here, today.
Among the forum's panelists were Family Healthy Specialist from the Terengganu Health Department Dr Darisah Lah and UMT Health Centre director Dr Arnie A Rahim.
Sazaly said the coronavirus was relatively new and no clinical tests and research had been thoroughly conducted on ikan singgang or curry to warrant any conclusive results on their ability to treat the disease.
“No clinical tests had ever been conducted on these two local dishes, so no one party can verify such claims.
“Therefore, I urge the public to stop spreading misinformation on Covid-19 and focus instead on steps to control the spread of the virus as advised by the Health Ministry.
“If you love the two local dishes, then go ahead and enjoy them because they are indeed delicious,” he said.
He said the Covid-19 virus spreads through contacts with eyes, nose and mouth.
“The public should refrain from touching their face, apart from ensuring that they wash their hands frequently,” he said.
He also advised for air within closed spaces to be constantly circulated especially in office buildings.
“The virus also thrives on cold temperature, so please manage the use of air-conditioners wisely,” he said.