According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as doctors and researchers continue to learn more about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), they’ve determined that the virus primarily passes from one host to another via airborne droplets. The virus can also survive for prolonged periods of time on various surfaces (fomites), but it hasn’t been confirmed that it effectively spreads in this manner. Still, community facilities should do everything they can do to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The CDC states that proper cleaning and disinfection of surfaces is a best practice for preventing COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases. But what should you do if your facility encounters a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19? The CDC’s environmental cleaning and disinfection recommendations document breaks down the proper course of action in detail.
Temporarily Close Off Infected Areas
Those with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19 who have been in a given facility may pose a threat to others inside said facility even after that person has left the building. This is because, as mentioned earlier, COVID-19 can linger on surfaces for hours and potentially infect those who come into close contact with respiratory droplets. The first step to remediating a community facility in this circumstance is to close off any areas known to be used by the suspected or confirmed infected persons. Ideally, this area should be sealed for at least 24 hours. This will help contain any airborne particles and ensure no one enters the potentially exposed area unwittingly.
Allow Fresh Airflow If Possible
If exterior windows and doors are connected to the sealed off area(s), these should be opened from the outside (if possible) to let fresh air circulate. This may help remove any infectious droplets from the enclosed space and reduce the risk of infection for anyone tasked with cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.
Properly Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
After the potentially infectious areas of the facility have been sequestered for about 24 hours, all surfaces within the area (as well as frequently touched surfaces, restrooms, common areas, etc.) must be properly cleaned and disinfected, following the protocols outlined by the CDC. For additional efficacy and safety, entities that can hire reputable disinfecting cleaning services should do so. These professionals are equipped with the right protective gear, cleaners, disinfectants, and techniques to keep community facilities safe after possible exposure.
Follow General Recommendations for Cleaning and Disinfection of Facilities Housing Ill Persons
For facilities that house individuals overnight, additional precautions and steps should be taken, especially if any of those persons are suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19. In this scenario, workers and caretakers in community facilities must follow the CDC’s general recommendations for cleaning and disinfection of facilities housing ill persons.
Hire a Responsive and Reliable Disinfection Service
The steps outlined above should be followed by all individuals tasked with maintaining and working in a community facility, especially during this pandemic. That said, you might have enough on your plate as it is during this chaotic time. As such, hiring professional disinfecting servicesif possible is a wise and important decision. The Budd Group offers a holistic coronavirus disinfection services package, including remediation disinfection and cleaning for those facilities following a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19. We deliver a CDC-compliant program to thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected areas in your facility and more.
If you’re looking for responsive, reliable disinfection companies near you, look no further than The Budd Group. To learn more about our services, our people, and our mission, give us a call today at 800-221-8158.