COVID-19 Resources
What is COVID-19?
On January 30, 2020, the International Health Regulations Emergency Committee of the World Health Organization declared the outbreak a “public health emergency of international concern” (PHEIC). On January 31, 2020, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex M. Azar II declared a public health emergency (PHE) for the United States to aid the nation’s healthcare community in responding to COVID-19.
How can I Manage COVID-19 in the Healthcare Environment?
Although the transmission dynamics have yet to be determined, CDC currently recommends a cautious approach to patients under investigation for COVID-19. Such patients should be asked to wear a surgical mask as soon as they are identified and be evaluated in a private room with the door closed, ideally an airborne infection isolation room if available.
Healthcare personnel entering the room should use standard precautions, contact precautions, airborne precautions, and use eye protection (e.g., goggles or a face shield).
The COVID-19 virus may survive on surfaces from a period of days to weeks. A February 2020 Study published in the Journal of Hospital Infection concludes that “surface disinfection with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite or 62e71% ethanol significantly reduces coronavirus infectivity on surfaces within 1 min exposure time. We expect a similar effect against the SARS-CoV-2.” Read the full study here.
The COVID-19 virus may survive on surfaces from a period of days to weeks. In order to keep COVID-19 at bay, it is vital to form a regimented routine with the following:
The Best Solutions for Surface Cleaning and Disinfection
The CDC recommends use of products with EPA-approved emerging viral pathogens claims
Defender®
Defender® (NaDCC) is a broad-spectrum disinfectant effective against a range of bacterial and viral pathogens. Defender® is List N and EPA registered effective against SARS-CoV-2 Strain USA-WA1/2020. While not tested against this specific strain of coronavirus, there are a number of Coronaviruses such as Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea virus (PEDs) included on the Defender Master Label that are similar to COVID-19.
Defender® (Klorkleen 2) is registered with the EPA for emerging viral pathogens at the highest level – 2c. NoCoV has been identified as a level 2a emerging pathogen. Defender would be recommended at 4306 ppm – 1 large tablet (13.1g) per 32 ounces of water – with a 1 minute contact time.
Current research shows significant environmental contamination by patients with SARS-CoV-2 through respiratory droplets and fecal shedding suggests the environment as a potential medium of transmission and supports the need for strict adherence to environmental and hand hygiene. Positive samples were found in toilet sites: bowl, sink and door handle.
Defender® is recommended for use against COVID-19 on high touch surface, floors, and toilet bowls.
Trust™ Single-Use Mops and Wipes
Trust™ environmentally friendly single-use mops and wipes are incredibly effective and cost efficient. They can replace your old, outdated mops and eliminate any means of cross-contamination. Use less water with a dry and damp option, all while keeping a consistent standard of care for your practice.
Solaris UV-C
There is a great deal of literature supporting the reduction of a variety of enveloped and non-enveloped virus with PX-UV (pulsed UV) The Lybot Pulsed UV Disinfection System is the most advanced UV disinfection tool on the market. It uses Maxpulse technology to create a higher flash rate, while in turn increasing the disinfection efficacy against a larger variety of pathogens. Its engineered reflector amplifies energy to target high-touch surfaces where 80%-90% of super bugs live and hide. So whether you set it for 3, 5, or 10 minutes, these simple and short cycles are 25%-40% faster and more effective than its leading competitors. Find more details on Solaris' use in combating COVID-19 here.
SureWash
Proper and Frequent Hand Hygiene: Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub eliminates the virus if it is on your hands.
SureWash teaches the WHO hand hygiene technique to help healthcare workers achieve compliance, reduce the risk of spreading infections and to improve patient outcomes. SureWash's Gesture Recognition Technology spots errors, provides specific feedback and supports self-directed learning. Improve hand hygiene competency. Reduce HAIs while delivering fun, effective, and cost efficient training.