2025.01.28

May 15, 2020: Former Surgeon and Antioxidant Researcher Answers All Questions About COVID-19, Immunity, Antibodies, Treatments, and Pseudoscience

 

 

 

For those who prefer reading the video content↓↓

 

Kojima: In today’s broadcast titled, “Former Surgeon and Antioxidant Researcher Answers All Questions About COVID-19, Immunity, Antibodies, Treatments, and Pseudoscience,” we’ll address various concerns. Joining us is Dr. Haruhiko Inubo, a special appointment professor at Gifu University. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Inubo.

 

 

Dr. Inubo: Thank you for having me.

 

 

Kojima: Professor, just yesterday, the government announced the lifting of the state of emergency in 39 prefectures. Many of our viewers are likely wondering how to navigate life going forward, especially since the virus hasn’t completely disappeared. What precautions do you think we should continue to take?

 

 

Dr. Inubo: By now, most people understand where clusters of infections have occurred—places like restaurants, live music venues, and hospitals. These are areas where people should exercise caution. However, clusters haven’t occurred in settings like crowded trains, even during peak commuting hours in February. If people wear masks and avoid talking, the risk of infection in such places seems relatively low. Masks remain an effective tool for protecting yourself and others.

 

 

Kojima: So, continuing basic measures like mask-wearing and handwashing is still important. We’ll also address questions from the comments section during today’s session. Let’s start with a question from the previous broadcast: “Professor Inubo mentioned evidence from Italy suggesting that only the elderly or those with underlying conditions need to be cautious. Could you elaborate on this?”

 

 

Dr. Inubo: The reports from Italy indicated that about 98–99% of those who passed away had underlying conditions and were elderly. In Japan, the average age of fatalities reflects similar trends—young, healthy individuals without pre-existing conditions are rare. Even when reports suggest no underlying conditions, it’s often the case that people were unaware of their conditions. This doesn’t mean everyone needs to panic, but caution should be exercised by those with known vulnerabilities.

 

 

Kojima: That makes sense. Misunderstandings about underlying conditions might lead to unnecessary fear. Thank you, Professor. Let’s move on to another question about COVID-19: “Could COVID-19 behave like herpes, remaining in the body and causing complications like lung fibrosis years later?”

 

 

Dr. Inubo: Currently, COVID-19 appears to leave the body within 4–6 weeks, and antibodies are produced, preventing reinfection by the same strain. However, mutations—like those seen in influenza—could pose risks. For now, evidence doesn’t support the idea that COVID-19 remains in the body or leads to recurring fibrosis like some other viruses.

 

 

Kojima: Thank you for clarifying. It’s important to differentiate between persistent viruses and COVID-19. Let’s address another question: “Does tobacco cause acetaldehyde levels comparable to alcohol? If so, why don’t we hear about headaches from smoking?”

 

 

Dr. Inubo: Smoking releases acetaldehyde into saliva, which contributes to oxidative stress and various cancers. The levels aren’t as high as those from excessive alcohol consumption, but the cumulative effect of low levels over time is harmful. Some individuals, particularly those sensitive to acetaldehyde, might experience headaches or discomfort from smoking.

 

 

Kojima: So, while the levels are lower, the long-term effects of smoking remain significant. Thank you, Professor. Shall we address questions about hand sanitizers? Some viewers have asked about using hypochlorous acid water as a substitute for alcohol-based sanitizers, especially since alcohol is hard to find in stores.

 

 

Dr. Inubo: Hypochlorous acid water is a viable alternative to alcohol-based sanitizers. It’s effective for disinfection and less harsh on the skin. For individuals sensitive to alcohol, hypochlorous acid water can be particularly useful.

 

 

Kojima: That’s helpful. Thank you, Professor. Moving on, many viewers are curious about the long-term outlook for COVID-19. Could you share your thoughts on how the pandemic might evolve over the next six months to a year?

 

 

Dr. Inubo: In the Northern Hemisphere, excluding Russia, cases appear to have peaked around late March. Warmer weather and increased humidity may reduce the virus’s viability, so we could see significant declines in July and August. However, a second wave is possible in the colder months of November and December. Historical patterns suggest subsequent waves can be stronger, but advances in medical and preventative measures should mitigate their impact.

 

 

Kojima: Thank you, Professor. It’s clear that we need to remain vigilant and adapt as new information becomes available. Finally, many viewers are curious about antioxidants. Could you explain oxidative stress and its impact on health?

 

 

Dr. Inubo: Oxidative stress is similar to rusting in metal or browning in apples—it’s the result of reactive oxygen species (ROS) overwhelming the body’s defenses. While ROS are a natural byproduct of metabolism, excessive levels damage cells and contribute to aging and disease. Stress, both physical and mental, exacerbates oxidative stress, so finding ways to relax and manage stress is crucial for maintaining health.

 

 

Kojima: That’s a great explanation. Thank you, Professor. Your insights have been incredibly valuable. Let’s wrap up for today. To our viewers, thank you for joining us. Please subscribe to this channel for updates on future live broadcasts.

 

 

Dr. Inubo: Thank you very much.

 

 

Note: The content shared in this video and text reflects the personal views of Dr. Haruhiko Inubo, a Special Appointment Professor at Gifu University’s Antioxidant Research Division. These views do not represent the official stance of his affiliated institutions.