At the beginning of the pandemic, disinfectant wipes were a coveted and hard-to-find item.
Now they are finally back on the store shelves. But how much do we really need to disinfect surfaces?
Microbiologists say the coronavirus does not usually survive on surfaces.
“In fact, go to hospitals where they treat patients with COVID-19 and check the surfaces and there are no infectious viruses,” said Dr. Emanuel Goldman, a professor of microbiology at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School.
Whenever the coronavirus is found on a surface, it is usually RNA. Think of it as the corpse or skeleton of the virus. It usually means that the virus is no longer there and you are unlikely to become infected by touching this surface.
Goldman says that’s why it’s not really necessary to constantly disinfect surfaces. Instead, we should focus on other preventative measures, such as hygiene.
“Really, all you have to do is wash your hands because, even if you touch something, it won’t go through the skin of your fingers. Wash your hands and you’re done, ”Goldman said.
Goldman reminds people to remember the three Ws: wear a mask, watch the distance, and wash your hands.