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Some Tanzanians Resort to Bogus Steam Treatment for Coronavirus

Charles Kombe

   DAR ES SALAAM - Ever since Tanzania's president endorsed inhaling steam
   to prevent coronavirus, some have flocked to shops selling steam
   machines -- even though health experts say there is no evidence the
   method has any impact on COVID-19, the disease caused by the
   coronavirus.

   Msafiri is making good money with a steam machine that he invented.

   Mjema says people are coming to buy hisproduct ever since President
   John Magufuli declared that steam works against the coronavirus.

   Mjemasays he now makes up to $200 dollars a day.

   Mjemasays before in his clinic he was earning70,000to100,000shillings
   but now heearns500,000and there is one day that he earned up to one
   million. He adds that is just the beginning.

   Two months ago, the Tanzanian leader suggested inhaling steam could be
   a coronavirus treatment.

   Magufulisaid,"The Ministry of Health should continue to clarify how
   inhaling steam helps to contain the coronavirus," he says, adding that
   If those viruses are in the nose or mouth, they will melt when the
   temperature reaches above100degreescentigrade.He says that is also an
   important thing.

   JaneMakyaohas put her faith in steam and comes for the treatment.

   Makyao says she steamsbecause she knowsthere isthecoronavirus, adding
   that when you get out from the steaming booth your body becomes more
   comfortable.Even PresidentMagufuliand their ministers recommend
   steamingbecause they know its importance, she says.

   But health experts warn there is no evidence steamprotects anyone
   fromthecoronavirus, adding that inhaling steam could even cause health
   problems.

   Fazel says it isbetter to understand that there is no scientific proof
   of this,addingthatonecan't rely on steaming as the cure for the
   coronavirus.He also saysit is betterthatpeople understand that there
   are effects of inhaling steam. Healsosayssome people may get a certain
   type of pneumonia that causes lungs problems, and this may increase
   their chance to contractthecoronavirus.

   In the meantime,Mjemacontinues to make money with his service from
   people who believethat steam, somehow, will protect them from
   theinfection.

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