Frequent hand washing is absolutely essential when it comes to ways that we can reduce the spread of Covid-19. The question is, why is it so important? New research¹ sheds light on the answer to this question.
Researchers evaluated the stability of the SARS CoV-2 virus on human skin and compared it to influenza A, which is the same virus that causes pandemic flu like H1N1. They found that SARS CoV-2 lasts about 9 hours on human skin, as opposed to less than 2 hours for influenza A.
This stability is much less than on other surfaces such as glass, plastic, and stainless steel. Still, 9 hours is a pretty long time. They also found that 80% ethanol inactivates the virus within 15 seconds.
What does this mean?
First, while it is becoming increasingly evident that SARS CoV-2 is an airborne virus, given this data, it is conceivable that one can catch Covid-19 by touching your hand to your nose, eyes, and mouth. And so, it is imperative that we wash our hands — for at least 20 seconds with soap and water ideally — frequently…very frequently.
We should not go 9 hours without washing our hands, especially if we have been out to the grocery store, or gas station, or even an outdoor restaurant. If we can’t use soap and water, we should use alcohol-based sanitizer and rub until our hands are dry.
As far as I am concerned, we can’t wash our hands enough. When I’m working in the ICU, I don’t go 9 minutes without washing my hands. We can’t be too safe, and unlike the contention of some, you need to be afraid of Covid-19. This is a horrific disease, and you don’t want to get it. Trust me.
Reference:
At 7:28 a.m., the sidewalk was still damp from last night’s Seattle area rain. I…
President Trump said recently that the United States will announce a “major” tariff on pharmaceutical…
Are you sure the toothpaste you’re using is safe and won’t expose you or your…
In 2023, Sheldon Ekirch was diagnosed with small fiber neuropathy, which makes her limbs and…
First Digital Health App United States Approval for Migraine Treatment with a Comprehensive Indication of…
Dementia’s devastation may slip under our notice unless we recognize its many manifestations in behavior,…
This website uses cookies. Your continued use of the site is subject to the acceptance of these cookies. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for more information.
Read More