Photos: Indian doctors warn of 'health risks' from using cow dung as COVID-19 cure

Doctors in India are warning against the practice of covering one's body in cow dung and urine in the belief it will ward off COVID-19, saying there is no scientific evidence for its effectiveness and that it risks spreading other diseases.

Ashok Oza lies on the ground after applying cow dung on his body believing it will boost his immunity to defend against the coronavirus disease.

Frontline worker Uddhav Bhatia touches a cow after applying cow dung on his body at the Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul Vishwavidya Pratishthanam Gaushala or cow shelter on the outskirts of Ahmedabad, India.

Gautam Manilal Borisa applies cow dung on his body.

There are concerns the practice could contribute to the spread of the virus as it involved people gathering in groups.

People walk after applying cow dung on their bodies during 'cow dung therapy', believing it will boost their immunity to defend against COVID-19.

People apply cow dung on their bodies during 'cow dung therapy.'

People bathe in cow milk to remove cow dung from their bodies during 'cow dung therapy.'

Ashok Oza bathes in cow milk to remove cow dung from his body.

Doctors and scientists in India and across the world have repeatedly warned against practising alternative treatments for COVID-19, saying they can lead to a false sense of security and complicate health problems.