Limit The Spread Of RSV In The Home

Cold and flu season is here, with a vengeance. Now, an unseasonably early arrival of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has been on the rise causing pediatrician offices, urgent care centers, emergency departments and inpatient units across the U.S. reeling from extremely high patient volumes. It is most commonly spread through close contact with sick individuals or through contaminated surfaces so by taking a few simple measures, you can stop the spread of RSV in your family.

Use Disinfectant Sprays

Disinfectant sprays such as Lysol are also effective at killing 99.9 percent of bacteria and viruses, including RSV. However, you’ll need to pay attention to the label’s directions for disinfecting surfaces, as they will need to stay wet for several minutes and then air dry. Whenever you clean surfaces that come in contact with food or toys with this spray, be sure to rinse them afterward.

Use Disinfectant Wipes

If you plan to use Lysol Disinfecting Wipes to clean hard surfaces, let the solution stay on the surface for at least four minutes so the solution can kill RSV and other viruses. This Lysol wipe is not only effective at disinfecting, but it is also three times stronger than a paper towel, so it can be effectively used to clean various surfaces without damaging them.

Use Air Filters

A MERV-13 rating air filter in your HVAC system will work best to trap viruses and other tiny particles, according to the EPA. Keeping your family safe from RSV requires more than simply upgrading the filter in your HVAC system. For maximum effectiveness, you should replace the filters every 30 days.

Splash-Less Bleach

Using bleach after someone has been sick to clean door knobs, kitchen and bathroom counters, and other surfaces in the house can help prevent others from contracting RSV. Bleach is an effective disinfectant that can kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria. With a thicker formulation than the original Clorox bleach formula, these splash-less bleaches are able to clean surfaces more effectively. While you’re cleaning, always avoid mixing bleach and vinegar.

Air Purifiers

While hand-washing and disinfecting surfaces will be your best defense against RSV, investing in an air purifier can also help. RSV can spread through the air, as well as via surfaces, so choosing an air purifier with a HEPA filter capable of trapping viruses is important.

Wash Those Hands!

The CDC lists frequent hand-washing as one of the top methods to prevent the spread of RSV. They also remind individuals to avoid touching their faces (or the face of a child) without first washing their hands. The basic structure of soap can break up viruses, rendering them ineffective.The basic structure of soap can break up viruses, rendering them ineffective.Make sure your home is well-stocked with soap to ensure that everyone will be able to keep their hands clean during RSV season.