Onions To Fight Flu Deputy Minister Scoffs But Says It Won T Hurt

---

The US National Onion Association says it’s an old wives’ tale dating back to the 1500s before germs were discovered. (freepik pic)GOPENG: There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that onions can be used to prevent the spread of influenza, said the deputy health minister, Dr Lee Boon Chye, in response to claims circulating on social media
It has been claimed that placing slices of onions around one’s home could absorb the virus and prevent it from infecting humans
Lee said there was no harm in adopting such tips or practices, including the use of disinfectant, “as long as they are not undertaken to the point of overdoing things, and do not create panic”
He added: “We do not oppose its (onions) use because it will not affect one’s health”
However, he said the people should practise good personal hygiene and have a balanced diet to help prevent against infections
According to the US National Onion Association, belief in onions to ward off illnesses stems from an old wives’ tale dating back to the 1500s, long before germs were discovered, when the prevailing belief was that contagious diseases were spread by miasma, or “noxious air”
Lee also dismissed fears of 5G technology causing cancer and other serious illnesses

He said the electromagnetic radiation from 5G radio frequencies was far lower compared to radiation emitted by smartphones or the sun. His ministry would continue to monitor transmitting stations with the cooperation of the World Health Organization, he said. - FMT

---