Viruses are sometimes described as “organisms at the edge of life”. They spread in many ways, for example by insects, coughing and sneezing, and physical contact.
Viruses replicate only inside the living cells of an organism. When they are not inside an infected cell, they exist in the form of independent microscopic particles too small to be seen, and when infected, a host cell is forced to rapidly produce thousands of identical copies of the original virus.
Viruses can infect all types of life forms, including bacteria. Hence, killing viruses alone isn’t enough to prevent the spread of virus. It’s important that germs and bacteria are targeted as well.
Common Viruses
Millions of viruses exist. While most of them have not been studied, the latest threat is the new Coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
Coronaviruses are enveloped viruses with a protective fat layer that can be easily torn apart by disinfectants. Hence, common household disinfectants, including soap or a diluted bleach solution, can deactivate coronaviruses on indoor surfaces. Having said that, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is still new. There isn’t enough data presently about what causes it and how to eliminate it.
Preventing Spread of Viruses
Cleanliness of the environment is the first line of defense against any virus. Frequent hand washing with soap is recommended too, since viruses can spread through physical contact.
In particular, a cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting routine that keeps bacteria and germs from gathering and reproducing is important because viruses depend on them to reproduce. To this end, numerous store-bought disinfectants claim to kill germs, bacteria, and viruses.
However, many of them are based on chemicals that may have undesirable side effects. When used in large quantity and frequently, they may cause chronic respiratory conditions for people who are exposed to them.
Hence, it makes sense to choose disinfectants that are sustainable and efficient. This also results in less waste and eliminates the need to store potentially harmful chemicals in a facility.
Whissh’s Sustainable Cleaning Provides Strong and Safe Defence Against the Spread of Viruses and Other Germs
At Whissh, we take care to select effective and sustainable solutions. Using efficient technique during our cleaning, we strive to minimise impact on people and the environment. To learn more about our solutions, call us at 020 8168 9818. We look forward to speaking with you!