Can the Covid virus live on household items? (COVID-19 & Surface Cleaning) Let's find out exactly about this

We remember how scared we all were at the height of the Covid pandemic, right? Even the bags of groceries we brought from the store were washed with soap and dried in the sun before we brought them inside. How likely is it that the Covid virus can be transmitted from surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and food parcels? This is a big question that many of us had. So today, let's talk about this precisely and simply.

How is the Covid virus actually transmitted?

First, let's understand this. The COVID-19 virus is mainly spread through small droplets (droplets) that come from the respiratory system of an infected person and enter the respiratory system of another person. Simply put, the disease is mainly spread through droplets of saliva that are released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

So, can't you get infected from a surface? It's possible, but that's very rare. That means you can get infected if you touch a surface that's contaminated with the virus and then touch your nose, mouth, or eyes. But it's very difficult to confirm that the disease is spread this way, because you can't tell right away if it's airborne. So remember, the main risk is through the air, not from things you touch.

How long can the virus survive on different surfaces?

This is a question that many people ask. How long a virus can survive on a surface depends on several factors. For example, environmental temperature, humidity, and the type of surface (i.e., cloth, plastic, or metal) all affect this.

Think of the virus as a drop of water. It evaporates quickly in a hot, dry place. Similarly, if it falls on a porous surface like a cloth, it dries quickly. But it stays on a hard surface like plastic or glass for a long time.

Let's look at this a little more clearly.

So what should we do?

Don't be alarmed by this information. The important thing is that even if the virus is on these surfaces, the chance of it infecting us is very low. The best protection is good hand washing and general hygiene.

What do you do if someone in your family gets COVID?

This is where we need to be especially careful. If someone in the household has been infected with COVID, or if it has not been 24 hours since someone with COVID has been in the home, it is important to disinfect in addition to regular cleaning. This can kill any remaining germs and reduce the spread of the virus.

Here are the steps to follow at that time:

• Read about the disinfectant: Carefully read the instructions for the liquid you are using.
• Safety first: Be sure to wear gloves .
• Ventilate well: Keep windows and doors open while cleaning.
• Clean thoroughly: First, use soap and water to thoroughly clean dirty areas. Then, apply disinfectant to the surface.
• Wash your hands frequently: If there is a COVID patient in your home, wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds . You should also wash your hands after removing your mask.
• Pay special attention to frequently touched surfaces: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, handrails, light switches, tables, chairs, telephones, and remote controls daily.

How do we stay clean on a normal day?

If no one in your home is sick, you don't need to worry about special disinfectants. Soap and water are the best and simplest way to get rid of germs.

• Wipe frequently touched surfaces (like doorknobs, light switches) with soapy water or a suitable cleaner daily.
• If you see something dirty, clean it right away.
• Check if the cleaner you are using is compatible with that surface.
• Most importantly, make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly after going out, before eating, and after using the bathroom.

These simple habits can protect you from not only COVID, but many other diseases. If you have any problems or doubts, do not hesitate to seek advice from your doctor .