The Corona virus pandemic has caused a demand for certain items all over the world;From hand sanitizers to masks.In Kenya, it’s something else.

Have you noticed that the price of lemons in Kenya has gone up? They are no longer the five-shilling fruits that vendors would beg people on the streets to buy.

The price has increased six times, with one piece now averaging between Sh.20 and Sh.30. The myth that lemons boost immunity against Corona Virus is being discussed on different platforms, and many people are falling for it.

At the Nairobi city center, eateries have now even started making “dawa”, a concoction of ginger, lemon and honey,with customers believing that the blend can cure Corona Virus.

So,why is there a craze over lemons and ginger in the Corona era?

Ginger mixed with lemon water and honey has been used for many years as a means to reduce phlegm and clear the nose. The relief that people get after taking the concoction gives them the idea that it is potent enough to prevent flu and the Corona Virus as well.

However,it is not true that the lemon concoction cures COVID-19.In fact,too much citrus might harm. The acid erodes the tooth enamel and it might cause extreme dental damages. They also cause acid reflux and many people get stomach upsets due to taking too much of the lemon mixed with ginger.

Medics have also dismissed the myth that taking lemon concoctions helps in fighting the virus, saying it could actually be what is aiding the spread of the virus.

People need to know that there is no cure for Corona Virus for now. Drinking lemon water and assuming that one has some form of immunity makes some people throw caution to the wind. This makes the virus spread more quickly.

This story was produced by Fridah Okachi at Mtaani newsroom in partnership with Code for Africa’s iLAB data journalism programme, with support from Deutsche Welle Akademie’.