ILOILO City – The Department of Health-Center for Health Development in Western Visayas (DOH-CHD 6) has warned the public against the use of “tuob” or steam inhalation to eliminate SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
“Tuob” is the practice of steam inhalation where an individual covers his/her head with a towel or large piece of cloth to inhale steam from a small basin with hot water which can be infused with salt, lemon, ginger, or other ingredients.
DOH-CHD 6 Local Health Support Division chief Dr. Ma. Sophia Pulmones said there are no studies providing evidences that inhalation of steam is effective against the virus.
“There is no scientific evidence that it can eliminate SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19,” she said.
According to Pulmones, such therapy may pose more harmful effects and danger to individuals. It may also lead to accidents.
“It could even cause burns,” Pulmones said.
Steam inhalation may also increase secretion in the nose and could then possibly spread viruses through sneezing and coughing, she added.
According to DOH, there are studies from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization that dismiss steam therapy as a cure for COVID-19. (With a report from PIA/PN)
