Novel Coronavirus FAQ
What is the mode of transmission for Novel Coronavirus?
The most common transmission of all Coronaviruses is airborne (sneezing and coughing). The second most common transmission is through close contact with an infected person (shaking hands, etc.). Coronavirus may possibly be transmitted by contacting a contaminated surface and then rubbing your eyes, ears, nose, or mouth.
What is the recommended duration for hand washing and sanitizing?
The CDC recommends that you lather your hands for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. With waterless sanitizers, it is recommended that hands remain wet with sanitizer product for at least 30 seconds.
How do you protect yourself when cleaning for Novel Coronavirus?
The CDC recommends adherence to Standard, Contact, and Airborne Precautions, Including the Use of Eye Protection. The specifics may be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/hcp/infection-control. html
What is dwell time?
Dwell time is the required period of time that a surface must remain wet in order for a disinfectant to perform completely. Check the product label for dwell time requirements as this is specific to each product.
Is Novel Coronavirus the same as SARS?
According to the CD: No. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing illness in people and others that circulate among animals, including camels, cats and bats. The recently emerged 2019-nCoV is not the same as the coronavirus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) or the coronavirus that causes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). However, genetic analyses suggest this virus emerged from a virus related to SARS. There are ongoing investigations to learn more. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available.
Is microfiber effective for Novel Coronavirus clean up?
Microfiber is effective for pre-cleaning steps, as well as disinfectant application. Over time, with repeated laundering microfiber will lose its charge and become less effective for cleaning.
What is a one-step disinfectant?
A one-step disinfectant has been verified by the EPA to be effective against named organisms in the presence of 5% blood serum solution. These products generally do not require pre-cleaning in order to disinfect a hard surface as long as dwell time is observed. However, related to Novel Coronavirus, the CDC is recommending a multi-step cleaning process including pre-cleaning prior to disinfection.
Resources for Information on Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)
The CDC website is the most authoritative source for information concerning disease outbreaks. They coordinate with EPA and we must be responsible and consistent with their recommendations.
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/index.html
They have their own FAQ too:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html
This document has all the specifics for “environmental infection control” concerning healthcare and various pathogens including SARS.
https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/pdf/guidelines/environmental-guidelines-P.pdf
Novel Coronavirus cleaning falls under the Bloodborne Pathogen Standard and should be considered when making recommendations.
https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_id=10051&p_table=STANDARDS