Sanitisation 101: The new do’s & don’ts

With many relaxations in the lockdown, disinfecting yourself, your home and belongings is getting all the more necessary, say doctors

The word on the street is that the lockdown is going to be relaxed or lifted from June 1. In the last few weeks, many relaxations have been notified. This makes it even more important for citizens to keep themselves safe. Doctors say that sanitizing individual belongings and household items is mandatory, and list out protocols that should be followed in these difficult times.

Dr Manohar K N, consultant physician, Manipal Hospital said, “Wash fruits in running water, baking soda, and keep them outside for a few hours prior to usage. At home, commonly touched surfaces should be wiped down at least twice a day with sodium hypochlorite (laundry bleach) or disinfectant.”

“Understanding what is essential versus non-essential is important. For example, going to a mall should be with an essential purpose. Even travelling needs to be only for essential services,” said Dr Murali Mohan, a neurosurgeon at Sagar hospitals.

“Once you come home, it is mandatory to keep shoes outside. Use sanitizers often whenever you are away from home. Masks should not be brought home, and if they are made of cloth, they should be dipped in a disinfectant and washed regularly. A general heightened awareness on social distancing and sanitization is vital at this phase,” said Dr Ravindra Mehta, Senior Consultant, Interventional Pulmonologist at Apollo hospitals, Jayanagar.

What about pets?

Dr S N Aravinda, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aster RV Hospital, said, “Coronavirus cannot travel from pets to humans. Do not use any harsh disinfectants while bathing the pets, do not put masks on them and do not use hand sanitizers on them. Use sanitary wipes and wash their collars, toys with a mild disinfectant. After coming back from walks, clean yourself with soap, disinfect your clothes, and wash your pet and its accessories with a mild disinfectant.”

For pets, use sanitary wipes and wash their collars and toys with a mild disinfectant–Dr S N Aravinda, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aster RV Hospital

Dr Murali Chakravarthy, MD Chairman, Central Infection Prevention and Control Committee, Fortis Hospital had a different point of view. “One must remember frequent washing of hands with soap and water is a great idea and alcohol is just a convenient replacement. Washing vegetables and currency notes is taking things too far. Encouraging children to participate in hygienic practices is good. By doing these modifications, we will learn to live safely,” he said.

Dr Bindumathi P L, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital said, “Fumigate any surface which might have come in contact with the virus. Wipe the bag and purse that you carry. Also, use wet wipes to sanitize your phone.”