By Sampada A. Khatiwada, Kathmandu, Sept. 22: Along with the novel coronavirus, fake news and false information about the pandemic are spreading simultaneously all across the globe. Disregarding the safety measures prescribed by the government, many on social media platforms are seen stating that the COVID-19 pandemic is nothing and should be taken normally.

But those who suffered from the novel coronavirus have a different tale to tell. COVID-19 is excruciating and it should not be taken lightly, say those who are battling with the infection and those who have recovered from it.

"The novel coronavirus is not just a normal viral infection. It should not be taken casually. This disease makes the patient vulnerable, both on physical and emotional level," said Captain Vijay Lama, a senior pilot of the Nepal Airlines Corporation, who tested positive for COVID-19 on September 14. Lama is also an actor.

"Initially, I was stationed at Soaltee Crowne Plaza along with my fellow pilot who also contracted the virus. But as I experienced the symptoms, I am now admitted to Star Hospital in Sanepa for further treatment," he said. 

He said that he was currently receiving treatment under the constant supervision of the doctors.

"Being a symptomatic patient makes it even harder to deal with the virus infection. All the symptoms make you weak and tired and on the top of it, the turmoil of emotions that you have to go through is agonising," he added.

Stating that the battle against the coronavirus infection was a painful one, captain Lama called everyone to not take a chance against their health and wellbeing and opt for all the safety measures that have been prescribed.

"Being negligent could take a greater toll on our life. Thus, we must make sure that we follow all the safety protocols and guidelines in our daily lives," said Lama. "Also, I request everyone who is currently battling with COVID-19 to remain mentally strong."

Billionaire businessman Binod Chaudhary has also had a similar experience with COVID-19.

"These days, many people on the social media platforms are seen sneezing at the COVID-19 pandemic. I believe no one should be in delusion that the novel coronavirus is nothing," said Chaudhary, by issuing a video message through his official Facebook page.

Sharing his experience of recovery from the infection, Chaudhary said, "Cold is the first symptom of COVID-19. Many people who have been infected with the coronavirus might have ignored this symptom by perceiving it as seasonal flu."

"As I was asymptomatic, I only suffered from common cold. I believe everyone with common and mild symptoms of COVID-19 should not let the infection take a bigger form and should try to reduce their illness," he added. "I used to take hot water, ginger, turmeric, lemon and Gurjo regularly to stay fit and to limit my symptoms to cold."

One should not be afraid of the novel coronavirus as this is the new reality of the world. However, this infection should not be taken lightly, added Chaudhary. "We should not let the virus infect us but if we contract the virus we should not let it spread within our body," he added. 

The public health experts say that the COVID-19 pandemic should not be neglected as it is a serious public health emergency.

Dr. Jageshwor Gautam, spokesperson at the Ministry of Health and Population, said, "Misinformation about the pandemic is seen floating on various social media platforms. Many have been disseminating delusional information about the novel coronavirus to fulfill their own propaganda. These people should not forget that they might as well be infected with the virus in the days to come."

Dr. Gautam requested everyone to not disregard the facts and findings of scientists all over the world regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The novel coronavirus should not be taken lightly as it can infect anyone. I request everyone to not consume fake and misleading news and listen to the struggles and stories of those who are battling with the infection and those who have overcome it," appealed Dr. Gautam.