Coronavirus research reveals where it lingers how to kill it

Coronavirus research has made significant progress in understanding where the virus lingers and how to kill it. Here are some key findings:

Where the virus lingers:

  1. Surfaces: Coronaviruses can survive on surfaces for several days, including:
    • Metal (up to 5 days)
    • Plastic (up to 7 days)
    • Glass (up to 9 days)
    • Fabric (up to 7 days)
    • Wood (up to 5 days)
  2. Air: Coronaviruses can remain airborne for several hours, potentially spreading through:
    • Aerosol transmission (e.g., coughing, sneezing)
    • Droplet transmission (e.g., talking, shouting)
  3. Fomites: Coronaviruses can also linger on:
    • Personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks, gloves, and gowns
    • Medical equipment like stethoscopes, thermometers, and blood pressure cuffs
    • Food and water surfaces

How to kill the virus:

  1. Disinfectants: Effective disinfectants against coronaviruses include:
    • Quaternary ammonium compounds (quats)
    • Hypochlorous acid (bleach)
    • Hydrogen peroxide
    • Ethanol (at least 70%)
  2. UV light: Ultraviolet (UV) light, particularly UV-C, has been shown to inactivate coronaviruses.
  3. Heat: Coronaviruses are sensitive to heat, and temperatures above 56°C (133°F) can inactivate them.
  4. Drying: Coronaviruses are also sensitive to drying, and low humidity can help reduce their survival time.
  5. Cleaning: Regular cleaning and disinfection of surfaces, especially high-touch areas, is crucial in reducing the spread of coronaviruses.

Additional tips:

  1. Wear PPE: Wear masks, gloves, and gowns when interacting with patients or handling potentially contaminated materials.
  2. Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
  3. Maintain social distancing: Keep a safe distance from others to reduce the risk of airborne transmission.
  4. Stay up-to-date: Follow reliable sources for updates on COVID-19 research, guidelines, and recommendations.

Remember, it's essential to follow proper protocols and guidelines to prevent the spread of coronaviruses. If you're unsure about how to handle a specific situation, consult with a healthcare professional or local authorities.