Corona Virus Disease, COVID-19, is most likely to spread from person to person from respiratory droplets released from humans breathing, coughing, or sneezing, etc. There is also some evidence to suggest the virus, SARS-CoV-2 can linger and stay alive on many surfaces and be spread by touching first the surface and then your mouth, nose or eyes. Until we have an effective vaccine, wearing a mask, maintaining 6 feet/ 2 meter distance between you and the next person, and frequent hand washing, are the most effective means we have to avoid being infected. It is also recommended that while indoors, do not stand in close proximity to others for periods of 15 minutes or longer.

Although it is less likely to spread from touching counters, door knobs or faucets, it is important to keep them clean since SARS-CoV-2, the virus and other pathogens, may remain viable for hours and as long as a few days, on many surfaces.

CLEANING

Using detergent or soap, and a sponge or cloth, wiping a surface, will remove dirt and grime. It will clean, and remove some bacteria and virus, but not necessarily kill all the germs.

DISINFECTING

Disinfecting can kill virus, bacteria and fungi on surfaces by using chemical solutions made for this purpose. Disinfecting does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, the spread of the virus will be lowered.

SANITIZING

Sanitizing is the two-step process of first cleaning and then disinfecting an object like a keyboard, door knob, tabletop, and the like.

Here is short guide about what to clean and how to accomplish it.

HANDS

To minimize the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases, it is very important to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If not possible, a 60% to 95% alcohol based disinfectant liquid will be an adequate substitute.

HOME

First clean then disinfect surfaces and objects that are handled often, such as door knobs, keys, tables, light switches, bathroom counters, faucets, and toilet flushers, and also phones, computers, and other items that are touched. Not all cleaning products will kill corona or other viruses. It is important to read the label on your cleaning products.

GROCERIES

Packaged food, fresh fruit and vegetables do not need to be cleaned to prevent corona virus, nor are the bags used to carry the food. Meat and fish do need special handling to limit the spread of bacteria. Wash all surfaces with hot soap and water that come in contact with these products. Wash your hands and do not allow uncooked meat and fish to come in contact with other food. Cook meat and fish thoroughly.

LAUNDRY

Wash your clothes and reusable masks regularly.

SHOES

Remove your shoes at the door to limit the dirt and germs brought into your home. You can also spray your shoes with a 70% alcohol disinfectant.

By following these protocols, the spread of COVID-19 can be lowered.