CRIME, POLICE + COURTS

Live Mic: Be wary of snake oil ‘cures’ for coronavirus

UPDATED: APRIL 14, 2020 AT 8:49 PM

New KSL host Lee Lonsberry joined the station in December.

BY CURT GRESSETH
KSLNewsRadio

This is an editorial piece. An editorial, like a news article, is based on fact but also shares opinions. The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and are not associated with our newsroom.

A little louder for the folks in the back: there are no known cures for coronavirus, including snake oil or anything else.

It bothers me when people try to take advantage of one another. I try to keep an eye on my own behavior to make sure I’m not taking advantage of other people. If you ever feel I am, go ahead and scold me.

But with the global COVID-19 pandemic, there are people out there who wish to take advantage of others who lack the proper understanding of coronavirus and seek to pry open their wallets.

We are a very trusting people here in Utah. Unfortunately, there is no shortage of ne’er-do-wells who want to take advantage of that trust.

Cease and desist letter

Former NFL player and Provo-native Kyle Turley received a letter from the FDA to cease promoting CBD products as a treatment or cure for COVID-19. According to regulators, there is no scientific evidence that CBD treats or prevents coronavirus, therefore the claims were deemed false.

It came to my attention that after receiving the FDA letter, Turley withdrew from his websites the products claiming to treat, prevent or cure COVID-19.

I give credit where credit is due — that it’s great to take the right steps to respond in this way. But I mention this incident to make you aware to be on the lookout for cures, remedies, potions, elixirs or vaccines purporting to treat or cure COVID-19. Because there are none known to date.

However, there are some drugs that are showing promise, but we’re not there yet.

So if someone tries to tell you snake oil or anything else cures coronavirus, they are trying to scam you.

My fingers are crossed tightly that the vaccine or cure is found soon.

Live Mic with Lee Lonsberry can be heard weekdays from 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on KSL NewsRadio. Users can find the show on the KSL NewsRadio website and app

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
Don’t touch your face.
Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
Get a flu shot.