Do Not Pick Your 'Hubijeok' Nose... "Vulnerable to COVID-19 Transmission"

Nasal Mucosa Pathogens on Fingertips Spread to Self and Others
"Nasal Defense System Collapses Even with Minor Impact"

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] U.S. medical experts have warned that picking one's nose is fatal in the transmission of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

According to CNN on the 28th (local time), U.S. medical experts stated, "Picking your nostrils with your fingers can promote the spread of COVID-19," adding, "It is an act that not only brings the virus into your own body but also transmits it to others." This is because the virus can enter the body through the nose, just like through the eyes and mouth.

Paul Pottinger, a professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine, said, "Whenever people who have just picked their nose (without washing their hands) touch something, they transfer viruses and bacteria on their fingertips," adding, "This is the exact opposite of what people want."

Experts emphasized that the defense system inside the nose can easily collapse from small impacts. Molecular virology expert Dr. Cedric Buckley said, "If picking the nose causes small wounds in the inner lining tissue, the virus can directly enter the capillary layer, leading easily to infection." Dr. Pottinger also explained, "Picking the nose damages several defense systems inside the nose, such as nasal hairs and mucous membranes, which block external pathogens."

They stressed that the best way to remove nasal mucus is to "blow your nose with tissue and wash your hands thoroughly." Dr. Pottinger said, "Nasal mucus is just a piece of dried mucus. You should hydrate it to soften it so it can come out on its own." He advised directly moisturizing the nose with saline spray or using a humidifier to maintain appropriate indoor humidity.

Additionally, there was an opinion that wearing a mask is effective in preventing nose picking. Dr. Pottinger said, "Masks not only block airborne particles but also physically prevent the habitual movement of hands toward the nose," adding, "This moment, when all humanity must cover their faces due to COVID-19, is a good opportunity to stop the habit of nose picking."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.