Drinking alcohol does not kill germs
Drink a shot of alcohol to kill those germs is a myth. Drinking alcohol won’t kill the germs in your body or protect you from getting sick. In fact, believing this could actually cause more harm than good.
What is the origin of the myth?
The idea that alcohol can kill germs likely comes from the fact that alcohol is used as a disinfectant on surfaces and in hand sanitizers. We know that rubbing alcohol can kill bacteria and viruses on our hands and on surfaces, so it’s easy to jump to the conclusion that drinking alcohol might do the same inside our bodies.
It is important to recognize that the alcohol used for disinfection is much stronger than what we drink, and it works in a completely different way.
Why does this myth persist?
- Tradition & custom: This myth sticks around because it’s been passed down through generations and is often repeated in social circles. In some cultures, there’s a strong tradition of using alcohol as a remedy for various ailments, so people might trust this advice because it’s what their parents and grandparents believed.
- Temporary relief: When people feel a bit better after drinking alcohol – maybe because it numbs their symptoms or gives them a temporary sense of warmth – they might think it’s proof that the alcohol is “killing germs.”
Is there any situation where the myth could be true?
- There is no situation where alcohol in the body acts as an internal disinfectant against harmful bacteria or viruses.
- Alcohol can have a mild numbing effect, masking the symptoms, not curing the problem.
What is the impact of this myth?
- Alcoholism: Believing that alcohol can kill germs can be dangerous. It might encourage people to drink more alcohol, thinking it will protect them from illness.
- Serious health risks: Alcohol in large amounts can actually weaken your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections. Excessive drinking also comes with other serious health risks, including liver damage, addiction, and impaired judgement.
- Avoiding proper medical care: Relying on alcohol as a “cure” could stop people from seeking proper medical treatment when they’re sick, potentially making their illness worse.
How can we dismantle this myth?
We need to spread the word that alcohol is not a cure for infections or illnesses:
- Share accurate information: Let’s talk to our friends and family about how alcohol works and why drinking it won’t kill germs. We can explain that while alcohol can disinfect surfaces, it doesn’t have the same effect when consumed.
- Promote safe health practices: Encourage people to practice proper hygiene, like washing hands regularly with soap and water and using hand sanitizers, especially in these times when health and safety are so crucial.
- Discuss the dangers of alcohol: We should also discuss the risks of drinking too much alcohol and how it can actually harm our health instead of helping it. By emphasizing the negative effects, we can discourage people from turning to alcohol as a “medicine.”
What is the bottom line?
At the end of the day, we need to understand that drinking alcohol does not kill germs or protect us from getting sick. This myth is based on a misunderstanding and can lead to harmful behaviour. Let’s stick to what really works: good hygiene, a healthy lifestyle, and proper medical care when we’re not feeling well.
