How to Disinfect Surfaces Against the Delta Variant Corona Virus
Just as things seemed to be getting back to a new normal and the pandemic was heading toward a final conclusion, a resurgence of COVID-19 is occurring in the U.S. due to the virus variant referred to as the DELTA Variant. With emphasis on getting more people vaccinated, it is a good idea to go back and review how we can help reduce the spread of COVID-19 (and other pathogens) with enhanced cleaning and disinfection practices.
About the DELTA Variant
Viruses are expected to mutate and the human corona virus (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19 is no different. Variants of the SARS-CoV-2 resulting from virus mutations have already been identified since the beginning of the pandemic. The Delta Variant is one we have heard a lot about in the news recently due to evidence of greater transmissible and illness severity. The Delta Variant of SARS-CoV-2 has become the dominant form of the virus in the U.S., causing nearly 80% of new cases.
Can Disinfectants Kill the Delta Variant? Assumed vs Proven
YES, disinfectants can inactivate the Delta Variant. But, how do you know for sure? Read on to learn more about disinfectants that will help guide you to products that will be effective.
The EPA has developed an approved list of disinfectants (called EPA list N) that they believe will inactivate SARS-CoV-2, but there are some key differences with 3 types of disinfectants lumped together and it is helpful to understand these differences.
- Disinfectants that have NOT been tested on the actual virus SARS-CoV-2. These disinfectants have been found to be effective on previously known human corona viruses and assumed to be effective on SARS-CoV-2 and the Delta Variant.
- Disinfectants that have NOT been tested but have an “Emerging Virus Pathogen Claim”. This group of disinfectants have been found to be effective on a type of viral pathogen that is more difficult to kill than human corona virus, therefore it is assumed to be effective.
- Disinfectants that have been tested on the actual virus that causes COVID-19. This new group of disinfectants have been tested and PROVEN effective on SARS-CoV-2 virus and all variants including the highly transmissible Delta Variant that causes COVID-19 illness.
Tools and Practices for Effective Disinfecting
FOCUS on the Right Surfaces
Disinfecting Surfaces to kill contagious pathogens that might be on surfaces is one part of the puzzle on slowing transmission of disease. Disinfecting every surface floor to ceiling is not usually very productive or effective.
The most productive disinfecting strategy is to focus on frequently touched surfaces. These are the surfaces most likely to harbor pathogens that can be transmitted to others.
Start by developing a list of high touch points in your facility. For large facilities like schools, it is best to create a list for each area i.e. Gyms, workout rooms, classrooms, buses/transportation, offices, etc.
Click on the link to see a High Touch Point List for different facilities: High Touch Checklist by Facility Type
Once the list is developed, determine disinfecting frequency of touch points. It could be daily, or more frequently as needed.
Select the Right Disinfectant Products
While you might select any product from EPA List N approved for use against SARS-CoV-2 and the Delta Variant, it is best to select products Proven to Kill the Virus that causes COVID-19. Searching for a product on list N is done by the EPA registration number on the product container label. Use the first 2 sets of digits that are separated by a hyphen (xxxx-xxx) to search on list N. Once you have located your product, you can determine if the claim is proven or assumed.
Below is an example of an EPA List N search for Multi-Clean 128 E-FECTicide, EPA No. 6836-365. Notice that the results are based upon the EPA registration number, not the product brand name. This table shows the product is proven effective on SARS-CoV-2 and requires a 1 minute contact time.
Concentrates vs Ready to Use: Getting your money’s worth, save 80-90% with concentrates.
Many disinfectants are sold in a ready to use convenience format. But, what are you paying for the convenience? A ready to use product is more than 99% water, so you are buying a lot of packaging and mostly water.
Concentrated disinfectants allow you to prepare disinfectant solutions by using your own water. Savings using a concentrate are more than 80% over RTU. If you use a dilution system, cleaning staff can easily re-fill bottles at the touch of a button.
During the pandemic, disinfecting wipes demand skyrocketed. These pre-moistened disinfecting wipes offer convenience and are especially handy when surfaces are disinfected very frequently. While using a microfiber cloth and liquid disinfectant is more cost effective, wipes have a place as part of an overall sanitation strategy.
Electrostatic Sprayers for Rapid Disinfecting of Surfaces
Spraying disinfectants with electrostatic sprayers is a new an innovative way to disinfect larger areas or complex surfaces very quickly. The electrostatic sprayers provide more uniform coverage of surfaces and reduces waste.
Electrostatic sprayers offer 70% faster disinfectant application and use 65% less chemical compared to other methods.
Conclusion:
Concern about a resurgent pandemic due to the Delta Variant reminds us that the pandemic is not over and we need to maintain an enhanced cleaning and disinfection strategy to help stop the spread.
Multi-Clean offers a complete line of infection prevention products with products proven to kills the Virus that causes COVID-19 including the Delta Variant.
Multi-Clean also offers the Victory Electrostatic Sprayer, the innovative tool for rapid and uniform application of disinfectant products.
To Learn More, visit us at multi-clean.com