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COVID-19 has created a dystopian atmosphere of paranoia. In the pre-coronavirus world, the same people that used to say “bless you” when they heard someone sneeze, would take two steps back if not violently tell you to sneeze into your elbow.
However, they are justified. They have to be cautious. Records have shown that this virus thrives on nonchalance. The situation is serious enough for this crisis to be termed as a pandemic. It is reported that in most cases, the transmission of the virus can happen through coming in contact with the sneeze or cough droplets of an infected person. There is much less chance of getting infected through airborne transmission as it needs specific conditions to happen. Since it takes 13-14 days for symptoms to appear, the government has advised strict quarantine. The virus can also be transmitted by coming in contact with surfaces of the immediate environment of an infected person or through objects used by them (1).
Therefore, in addition to making sure that you and your household are strictly adhering to the precautionary measures, you have to thoroughly clean your immediate environment on a regular basis. Even Bollywood stars, like Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shilpa Shetty Kundra, and Vicky Kaushal have taken to social media to spread this important message. To soothe your paranoia, we are here with some easy cleaning and hygiene tips that will help you keep the COVID-19 virus out of your home.
1. Personal Hygiene
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Always remember to follow the personal precautionary measures that have been issued worldwide. Personal hygiene is the first and foremost barrier between your family and the virus. These measures include:
- Avoid touching your face.
- Restrain yourself from coughing or sneezing into your hands.
- Wear a mask while stepping out.
- Maintain physical distancing.
- Wash your hands frequently.
2. Cleaning Your Household
Disinfect and clean high-touch surfaces as frequently as you can. These surfaces may differ from house to house, but some common high-touch surfaces are doorknobs, handrails, kitchen counters, coffee tables, light switches, taps, remotes, keyboards, and other regularly used electronic gadgets. Cleaning high-touch surfaces often lower the risk of infection. Read and follow the instructions on the cleaning product when using it to achieve optimum effectiveness.
First, clean the surface with soap and water, then use a disinfectant product that constitutes at least 70 percent alcohol. Do not wipe the disinfectant immediately after applying it. It needs to stay on the surface for a few minutes to be effective.
3. Doing Laundry
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COVID-19 virus can survive for days when it comes in contact with a surface. The survival duration varies from surface to surface, yet it is important to be preventive on all fronts (2). Remove your shoe before entering the house and change clothes immediately. Wash your towels, bedsheets, and clothes regularly. When washing clothes inside the house, avoid shaking the linen so as to reduce the possibility of dispersing the virus through air. Try to use warm water when possible. After washing, wash your hands with soap or use a sanitizer. Don’t forget to thoroughly disinfect your hamper or laundry bag at regular intervals.
4. Handling And Preparing Food
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It is quite plausible that people can become infected by coming in contact with a contaminated food surface or package. Since most of our food is getting delivered or picked up at grocery stores, it is advisable to take proper measures to avoid foodborne diseases. To be on the safer side, remove unnecessary packaging, and dispose it into the garbage with a closed lid. Transfer the contents into a clean container. Disinfect cans and tetra-packs before opening. In the case of unpackaged items like fruits and vegetables, rinse it thoroughly. Once done, wash or sanitize your hands immediately.
When preparing food, wash your hands thoroughly before starting the process. Cook food at the recommended temperature. Disposal of food waste and packaging should be done in a sanitary manner. Wash your hands before eating and make your children follow the same.
Share with us in the comments below if these tips helped you soothe your anxiety and to keep the COVID-19 virus from your house.
