Cleaning the surface of objects isThis is important to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus. The reason is, the virus can survive on the surface of objects and can enter the body if the person touches the objectcontaminated with this microorganism.
Virus is one of the organisms that cause infection which is very small, even smaller than bacteria. Because they do not have a complete structure to live independently, viruses need whole cells, such as human cells, as a host in order to survive and reproduce. Outside of the host, such as on the surface of objects, viruses can still survive, even if only for some time.
This, lol, the Importance of Protecting Surfaces from Viruses
There are various kinds of diseases caused by viral infections, ranging from flu, smallpox, hepatitis, herpes, polio, measles, Zika fever, HIV/AIDS, dengue, Ebola, to COVID-19. now, if the virus manages to enter the body when the immune system is not strong enough to fight it, then the symptoms of the disease will arise.
Viruses can enter the body in several ways, either directly or indirectly. Direct transmission can occur through close contact with a person infected with the virus, direct contact with the blood or body fluids of a person infected with the virus, or animal bites. The virus can also be transmitted from pregnant women to the fetus they contain.
Meanwhile, indirect transmission can occur through intermediary media, such as object surfaces. It is important to note that viruses can live on surfaces for several hours to several days, depending on the type of surface, temperature and humidity of the object.
For example, the Corona virus that causes COVID-19, or SARS-CoV-2, can survive on surfaces made of copper for 8 hours, cardboard for 24 hours, stainless steel for 2 days, and plastic for 3 days. now, that is the reason why it is very important to keep the surface of objects clean.
Here's How to Clean Your House and All Objects from Virus Exposure
Because the surface of objects can be a means of transmitting the virus, it is important for you to clean them regularly, especially objects that are often touched. The following are steps for cleaning the house and household appliances to prevent transmission of the virus:
Prepare the necessary equipment
Equipment that needs to be prepared to clean the house includes water, soap or detergent, clean rags, and garbage bags. In addition, make sure you wear a mask and gloves to prevent the transmission of viruses that may stick to the surface of the object you are cleaning, as well as protect the skin from exposure to chemicals in cleaning agents.
Clean the surface of the object with water and soap
Before starting to clean, wash your hands with soap and water first, then put on gloves. You can use gloves made of rubber or plastic. In addition, open the door or window of the house so that air circulation in the house is smooth while cleaning the house.
Clean all surfaces of objects in the living room, kitchen, bedroom, and other rooms, using a clean cloth that has been soaked in water and soap. If available, you can spray a liquid disinfectant on every surface of the object. However, make sure how to use it according to the instructions suggested on the product packaging label, yes.
In cleaning, prioritize surfaces that are frequently touched and that may contain a lot of bacteria or viruses, such as doorknobs, tables, TV remotes, sink faucets, keyboard and mouse computers, and light switches.
The walls of the house, including one that is often forgotten to clean. In fact, the wall is the widest surface in the house so it can be a place for bacteria or viruses to stick.
Research reveals that the presence of walls can increase the number of microbes in the house. In fact, the more rooms separated by walls, the more types of microbes that exist in the house. This shows that the walls are also important to clean.
Immediately clean yourself after cleaning the house
After cleaning the surface of the objects in the house, put all the dirt and garbage into the plastic waste that has been prepared. Tie the plastic trash tightly, then place it in a tightly closed trash can. After that, remove the mask and gloves, then immediately throw it in the trash.
Even though you're tired after cleaning, don't immediately relax and come into contact with family members, OK? Immediately wash your hands, take a shower, and wear clean clothes to prevent exposure to viruses that may stick to your skin or the clothes you wear when cleaning the house.
So that you and your family can avoid various diseases caused by viruses, make it a habit to clean your house regularly with the above method, yes. Clean the surface of objects at home, at least once a week, or more often if a family member is sick.
Viral infections will usually cause general symptoms, such as feeling unwell, fever, runny nose, cough, vomiting, diarrhea, and a rash. If these symptoms occur to you or your family, immediately consult a doctor for proper care and treatment.
