WHO latest advisory: COVID 19 spraying and misting surfaces further disperse and spreads the virus. It can also lead to eye and skin irritation, and other health problems.
COVID 19 spraying and misting surfaces not recommended by WHO
Several months have passed since the COVID-19 pandemic infected some of the world’s most populous cities and territories. According to the latest data, there are 24,605,876 confirmed COVID-19 cases all over the world. Around 834,791 of it were recorded dead because of the disease.
The fast-growing number of COVID-19 cases has brought tremendous fear and panic into different parts of the world. It also caused numerous lockdowns that leads to many businesses to close and employees to lose their jobs.
Authorities and health experts have kept reminding us of doing pre-cautionary measures to help prevent the spread of disease. From frequent hand-washing, wearing a mask, social distancing, and surface disinfecting. But yesterday, the World Health Organization released its latest advisory. The advisory states that spraying and misting of surfaces with a disinfectant is not recommended. As it furthers disperses and spreads the virus and would not even reduce an infected person’s ability to spread the disease.
Because it can further disperse or spread the virus.
“Spraying and misting surfaces further disperses and spreads the virus. Spraying of individuals with disinfectants is not recommended under any circumstances. This practice could be physically and psychologically harmful and would not reduce an infected person’s ability to spread the virus through droplets or contact.”
The latest WHO advisory says.
It can be harmful to our health too.
COVID-19 spraying and misting surfaces advisory/Image from Freepik
Aside from that, it won’t help on controlling the disease, WHO also claims that spraying and misting of disinfectants to individuals can be harmful too.
“The toxic effect of spraying with chemicals on individuals can lead to eye and skin irritation, bronchospasm due to inhalation, and potentially gastrointestinal effects such as nausea and vomiting.”
The WHO advisory adds.
So instead of spraying and misting, the WHO advised that disinfectants should be applied to surfaces using a cloth or wipe. And when disinfecting at your home, here are the things that you should keep in mind.
Measures to keep in mind when using a disinfectant
WHO COVID-19 spraying and misting surfaces advisory/Image from Freepik
Before and while disinfecting
- The disinfectant and its concentration should be carefully selected to avoid damaging surfaces and to avoid or minimize toxic effects on household members (or users of public spaces).
- Sodium hypochlorite (bleach/chlorine) may be used at a recommended concentration of 0.1% or 1,000ppm (1 part of 5% strength household bleach to 49 parts of water).
- Alcohol at 70-90% can also be used for surface disinfection.
- Avoid combining disinfectants, such as bleach and ammonia, since mixtures can cause respiratory irritation and release potentially fatal gases.
- Surfaces must be cleaned with water and soap or detergent first to remove dirt, followed by disinfection.
- Cleaning should always start from the least soiled (cleanest) area to the most soiled (dirtiest) area in order to not spread the dirty to areas that are less soiled.
- Keep children, pets, and other people away during the application of the product until it is dry and there is no odor.
- Do not allow children to use disinfectant wipes. Keep cleaning fluids and disinfectants out of the reach of children and pets.
- Open windows and use fans to ventilate. Step away from odors if they become too strong. Disinfectant solutions should always be prepared in well-ventilated areas.
- The minimum recommended personal protective equipment when disinfecting in non-healthcare settings is rubber gloves, waterproof aprons, and closed shoes. Eye protection and medical masks may also be needed to protect against chemicals in use or if there is a risk of splashing.
After disinfection
- All disinfectant solutions should be stored in opaque containers, in a well-ventilated, covered area that is not exposed to direct sunlight and ideally should be freshly prepared every day.
- Wash your hands after using any disinfectant, including surface wipes.
- Keep lids tightly closed when not in use. Spills and accidents are more likely to happen when containers are open.
- Throw away disposable items like gloves and masks if they are used during cleaning. Do not clean and re-use.
- Do not use disinfectant wipes to clean hands or as baby wipes.
Image from Freepik
WHO reminders on how to prevent COVID-19
Aside from the proper way of disinfecting surfaces, WHO strongly recommends practicing the following to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
- Frequently wash hands with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand gel. This should be performed before touching surfaces, items, pets, and people within the household environment.
- While outside, always follow physical distancing measures. Stay at least one meter distance from another person.
- Follow good respiratory hygiene by covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Avoid going to crowded places.
There is still no evidence that the COVID-19 virus can multiply in food. But WHO strictly recommends to practice proper and food handling. Not just to protect you and your family from COVID-19 but to other health problems as well.
Five keys to safer food
- Keep your food clean. Wash it thoroughly in running water.
- Separate raw and cooked food.
- Cook food thoroughly.
- Keep food at safe temperatures.
- Only use safe water and raw materials when cooking.
And before preparing or eating food, it is important to always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 40-60 seconds.
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