 Pictured: The ultrastructural morphology exhibited by coronaviruses. (Image source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) |
Important note to our readers: As a public service, the Gatestone staff has gathered the following information from established and credible internet sources along with published medical journals to try to give you a deeper understanding of the COVID-19 and the means to contain it.
However, Gatestone is not a medical authority and you will definitely want to consult your personal physician or health care professional first please as a precaution.
As a reminder, please continue to stay social distanced: we all hope to have many years ahead of us to pursue our shared examination of public policy, foreign affairs, and our nation's domestic agenda.
Cordially,
The Staff at Gatestone
What is it?
COVID-19 is a protein molecule (RNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation), and converts them into aggressor and multiplier cells.
Whether viruses are alive or not is debated; however the coronavirus is unable to exist on its own for very long without attaching itself to a host. Without a living host, it decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity type of material where it lies. (paper versus plastic, fabric versus steel)
The virus is extremely fragile; it has a thin outer layer of fat. That is why washing hands frequently is the best remedy against the virus: because the foam in the soap CUTS the FAT (that is why you are instructed by health experts to rub your hands for at least 20 seconds with lots of soapy foam and rinse in hot water.). By dissolving the fat layer, the COVID-19 protein molecule disperses and breaks down.
Combat it with heat, soap, bleach and patience
HEAT melts fat; that is why we need to endure hot tap water for washing hands that is at least 77 degrees Fahrenheit (in addition, hot water creates additional soapy foam, adding to the power of disinfected. The washing protocols remind you to wash above your hands and avoid touching your face because that offers multiple entry points for COVID-19.
Alcohol (That would be rubbing alcohol, not your favorite Chardonnay) at concentrations over 65%-75% will also break down the fat around the external lipid layer (fat) around COVID-19 virus and render it inactive.
When disinfecting surfaces, strong household bleach, or a mix of five tablespoons of bleach to one gallon of water, can be used if appropriate for the surface. (The active ingredient is sodium hypochlorite.) Make sure the bleach is unexpired, that it is suitable for disinfection, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Never mix household bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser. Here are the CDC's recommendations for use of bleach.
Keeping current on COVID-19
The health care protocols designed to combat this pandemic continue to change every day, from instructions on the use of face masks to how best to wipe down groceries purchased at the store.
While following the tested prevention strategies presented in this Gatestone alert it is equally important to stay current on new instructions as COVID-19 research is unfolding and additional data is being presented daily.
Our wishes for good health and continued COVID-19 prevention.
Vox has created an instructive video, great for kids, that will aid in your family's defense against COVID-19.
