Hands Matter – COVID-19 Facts

The COVID-19 virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat). When absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and converts them into aggressor and multiplier 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 type of material where it lies.

COVID-19 is fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy because it cuts the fat. That is also why you must rub for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam. By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.

It is not a living organism like bacteria. You cannot kill with antibiotics what is not alive.

Heat melts fat, therefore it is good to use water above 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 °C) for washing hands, clothes and everything else. In addition, hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.

Alcohol in any mixture with alcohol over 65% dissolves fat, especially the external lipid layer of the virus. Listerine is 65% alcohol.

Any mixer with 1-part bleach and 5-parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaking it down from the inside.

Vinegar is not useful against the virus because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.

Oxygenated water helps long after soap, alcohol, and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein. But you must use it pure even though it hurts the skin.

NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloths.

If you shake surface it is on, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours and can be breathed in or attached to the skin. While the virus is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates at different times, depending on the surface:

• Fabric and porous surfaces – 3 hours
• Copper and wood – 4 hours
• Cardboard – 24 hours
• Metal – 42 hours
• Plastic – 72 hours

The virus molecules remain very stable in cold air, outdoors or near home or car air conditioners. The molecules also need darkness and/or moisture to stay stable. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade the virus faster.

Ultraviolet light shined on any object containing the COVID-19 virus will break down the virus protein. The more confined the space, the more concentrated the virus can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.

Novel Coronavirus cannot penetrate healthy skin. It is critical to wash your hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote controls, cell phoned, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc., and when using the bathroom.

Use a skin moisturizer. Hands become dry from so much washing and the virus molecules can hide in micro-cracks of the skin. The thicker the moisturizer, the better.

Keep your nails short so that the virus does not hide there.*

Use of a skin barrier such as Derma Shield can help skin maintain its natural moisture when hands are washed often or disinfected with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Learn more about Derma Shield at www.dermashield.us.

* Compiled from the Assistant Professor of infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University