Information from Michele Assad, Assistant Professor in Infectious Diseases at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore Maryland. This is an excellent summary to avoid contagion:
* The virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipids (fats) which, if absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or mouth mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and converts them into multiplier and attacker cells.
* Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and the type of material in which it is found.
* The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That’s why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, as the foam BREAKS THE GREASE APART (this is why lengthy rubbing is recommended: for at least 20 seconds or more, creating foam). By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.
* HEAT melts the fat; use water above 25 degrees Celsius to wash your hands, clothes and everything else. In addition, hot water produces more foam which makes it even more effective.
* Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol greater than 65% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.
* Any mixture with 1 part of bleach and 5 parts of water directly dissolves the protein, breaking it down from the inside.
* NO BACTERICIDES. The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; one cannot kill with antibiotics what is not alive, but rapidly disintegrate its structure with all that has been said above.
* NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets or clothing. While the virus is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours (fabric and porous material), 4 hours (copper, because it is naturally antiseptic; and wood, because it removes all moisture and does not let the virus detach and disintegrate), 24 hours (cardboard), 42 hours (metal) and 72 hours (plastic). If you apply shaking movements or use a duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours and can settle in your nose.
* Viral molecules remain very stable in external or artificial cold, like air conditioners in homes and cars. It also needs moisture to remain stable and especially likes darkness. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade it more quickly.
* UV LIGHT directed at any object that may contain the virus breaks its protein based structure. For example, UV light is best to use to disinfect and reuse a mask. Be careful, it also breaks down collagen (which is a protein) in the skin, eventually causing wrinkles and skin cancer.
* The virus CANNOT go through healthy skin.
* Vinegar is NOT useful because it does not break the protective layer of fat.
* NO ALCOHOL or VODKA. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol and you need 65%.
* LISTERINE (mouthwash) USE IF NEEDED! It’s 65% alcohol.
* The more that space is limited, the higher the concentration of the virus. More open or naturally ventilated areas have a lesser concentration.
* BOTTOMLINE: you have to wash your hands before and after touching mucous membranes, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote controls, cell phones, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And after using the bathroom.
* You must MOISTURIZE DRY HANDS, for example: washing them often leads to dry hands, creating space for molecules to hide in micro wrinkles or cuts. The denser the moisturizer, the better.
* Keep your NAILS SHORT so that the virus does not hide bellow nails.