What are the main sources of spread of COVID-19

Given the new outbreaks of coronavirus, professionals are constantly uncertain and afraid of whether it is safe to go to their jobs every day. Faced with this scenario, it is important to know the main sources of the spread of Covid-19 in offices and public spaces, as this can help us protect ourselves more effectively against the virus.

Enter our website and discover our products to combat COVID-19, both in the office, at home, or in public spaces.

Modes of transmission

Droplets (sputter) emitted during coughing, sneezing, speaking, or singing by an infected person and can reach the mouth, nose, or eyes of a person transmit between people it. Person in the immediate vicinity (1 to 2 m) and be inhaled. The quantity of droplets emitted varies according to the person and the circumstances (physical effort, singing, etc.). We consider that close contact with an infected person is the main mode of transmission of the disease: the same place of life, close contact during a cough, a sneeze, or a discussion in the absence of protective measures.

Smaller droplets can stay airborne longer and travel further apart.

Several episodes of transmission that occurred in certain enclosed spaces suggest possible transmission by aerosols. Most of these are specific conditions (overcrowded closed environments, possibly poorly ventilated, choral singing involving a significant emission of micro-droplets, restaurant with contamination of a neighboring table which was in the airflow from the ventilation, course fitness). Under these conditions, besides transmission by droplets linked to the proximity of people, we must take the risk of exposure to possibly infectious aerosols accumulated in a room into consideration.

In addition, a rarer transmission may exist: through hands brought to the face after having been in direct contact with an infected person or with freshly contaminated surfaces. Droplets can settle quickly and end up on nearby surfaces. 

Viable SARS-CoV-2 has been detected on surfaces for periods varying from a few hours to a few days, depending on the type of environment (temperature, humidity) and the type of surface (approximately 24 hours on cardboard, and 2 -3 days on plastic or stainless steel). We need additional data to clarify the infectivity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus persisting on these surfaces, particularly given the rapid decrease in its concentration on the surfaces.

‘High-touch surfaces’

In addition to keeping the safety distance between people, there are other sources of the spread of Covid-19. They are the so-called ‘ high-touch surfaces, such as knobs, switches, or work tools. Which can become the fastest way to spread the virus to other surfaces and people if they are not sanitized properly and with the most effective products.

According to a study by the American Society for Microbiology at the Interscience Conference on Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, it was shown that after applying viral samples to frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs or work tables, between 40% and 60% of workers with infection two to four hours after exposure.

It was also found that the virus had spread to most commonly used surfaces and objects in the office. Computer equipment, switches, railings, and telephones are on top of the list.

It is essential to impart effective strategies. To make it possible to reconcile economic activity with the importance of keeping the virus under control and protecting workers.

For example, we should establish disinfection and sanitization protocols daily and, if possible, several times a day.

There is growing concern about cleanliness and hygiene in work environments

All our products to combat the coronavirus and our professional cleaning machinery respond to the growing concern about maintaining and achieving safer workspaces.

In a survey carried out by LinkedIn. It related the main concerns of workers when returning to their jobs to safety. 

For example, attendance at large meetings, security measures, or concerns about professional deep cleaning and hygiene policies.

According to the fifth wave of the Covid-19 Barometer, prepared by Kantar. At the end of May, 26% of workers will return to the office as soon as possible. Both studies reflect the reality of our time. The concern of having to attend work environments that have not yet done on their disinfection process.

Contagion through small droplets or particles emitted when sneezing, coughing, or talking. From contact with surfaces, we cannot forget the transmission that occurs through the fecal-oral route.

In this sense, bathrooms are another of the main sources of the spread of Covid-19. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the extractor fan in the toilets works continuously. Keep the windows closed so that there are no cross-flows of air. 

Similarly, these spaces need cleaning and disinfection ion as often as possible.

Experts recommend flushing toilets with the lid closed as a preventive measure.

Ensure proper ventilation in offices

Closed spaces, significantly reduced the risk of contagion when there is adequate ventilation in the rooms.

In buildings with ancient installations that do not have forced ventilation. The most appropriate thing to do will be to stop its operation. Choose to open windows and doors as much as possible. But always trying to avoid drafts.