The recent bout of flu has left many households vulnerable to further infection. According to experts, the flu virus can stay contagious on hard surfaces for up to two days, making proper disinfection crucial to preventing the spread of illness to others.
Dr Chetan Jinadatha, a clinical professor at Texas A&M, and Maddy Baker, a school custodian, share their expertise on how to effectively disinfect your home. They recommend starting with a clean surface, using a multi-purpose cleaner or degreaser, and checking the label for effective disinfectants.
Baker suggests using a microfiber cloth to trap dust and grime while scrubbing surfaces. Jinadatha advises against using disinfectants on dirty surfaces, as organic material can neutralize the disinfectant's potency.
When choosing a disinfectant, it's essential to check the label for effective kill claims against specific illnesses, such as Covid-19 or Ebola. Baker recommends using a hospital-grade option like OdoBan's Disinfectant Concentrate, which is cost-efficient and effective.
Remember to let the disinfectant sit for the recommended dwell time, as 'these disinfectants don't kill on contact'. A dwell time of five minutes or more is recommended for effective germ killing.