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COVID and flu aren’t the only viruses to worry about this winter. You may have heard on the news that cases of RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) have been on the rise. While most adults and older children typically only experience mild symptoms, RSV can pose a serious health threat for infants and other high-risk individuals. It is most commonly spread through close contact with sick individuals or through contaminated surfaces. Taking a few simple measures can help you protect your family by stopping the spread of RSV.
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Clorox Splash-Less Bleach
Bleach is an effective disinfectant that can kill up to 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria. Using bleach to clean door knobs, kitchen and bathroom counters, and other surfaces in the home after someone has been sick can help protect others in the house from contracting RSV. The Clorox Splash-Less Bleach features a thicker formula than the company’s original bleach formula. This thicker consistency allows for a more controlled pour and is ideal for cleaning surfaces. Just remember, never mix bleach and vinegar when you’re cleaning.
Lysol Disinfectant Spray
Lysol Disinfectant Spray can also kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria on hard surfaces, including RSV. However, make sure you closely follow the label’s directions for disinfecting surfaces, as they’ll have to remain wet for several minutes and then be allowed to air dry. If you use this spray to disinfect any of your children’s toys or any surfaces that come into contact with food, be sure to rinse them after they’ve been cleaned.
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Softsoap Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap
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. Make sure your home is well-stocked with soap to ensure that everyone will be able to keep their hands clean during RSV season. While Softsoap Antibacterial Liquid Hand Soap is marketed specifically to kill bacteria—it has been shown to remove up to 99.9 percent of bacteria on the hands—this soap, like any other, is also effective at killing viruses. The basic structure of soap can break up viruses, rendering them ineffective.
Coway Airmega True HEPA Air Purifier
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. The Coway Airmega uses a four-stage filtration system to trap up to 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Choose from three fan speeds or use the auto mode, which will select the best setting based on the air quality in the space.
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Lysol Disinfecting Wipes
Lysol Disinfecting Wipes are another tool to have in your cleaning arsenal to fight RSV. When cleaning hard surfaces with Lysol Disinfecting Wipes, be sure to let the surface stay wet for four minutes to let the solution kill RSV and other viruses. In addition to being an effective disinfectant, these Lysol wipes are also three times as strong as a paper towel, allowing them to help you effectively clean a variety of surface types without tearing.
Aerostar MERV 13 Air Filters
The type of air filter you use in your HVAC system can also potentially help limit the spread of RSV. According to the EPA, filters with a minimum of a MERV-13 rating are the most effective at trapping viruses and other tiny particles. These MERV-13 filters from Aerostar are available in a range of sizes to work with various HVAC systems. For maximum effectiveness, replace the filters every 30 days. Keep in mind that simply upgrading the filter in your HVAC system won’t be enough to keep your family safe from RSV. However, when used in conjunction with some of the other products recommended here, it can be part of the solution.
Behr Copper Force Paint & Primer
The Behr Copper Force Paint & Primer offers an innovative formula that takes advantage of the antimicrobial properties of copper. This EPA-registered virucidal and antibacterial paint and primer is able to kill 99.9 percent of viruses and bacteria over the painted surface within two hours. The antimicrobial properties of the paint will remain active for up to six years, allowing the paint to offer protection for your family for the next several RSV and flu seasons. The paint offers an eggshell sheen to resist dirt and provide a smooth and velvety finish to your walls.
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McKesson Hydrogen Peroxide 3%
While some natural disinfectants won’t be as effective against RSV, hydrogen peroxide can break down viruses found on surfaces. Use the McKesson Hydrogen Peroxide 3% solution to disinfect a variety of hard surfaces in your home, such as countertops or door knobs. Please note, however, that hydrogen peroxide can be a bit harsh on some materials, so you may want to limit how much you use this disinfectant.
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