People have once again started interacting with the people whom they haven't spoken to either in the recent past or since long.
A few days back, we spoke with a friend who is a science geek and we had a detailed discussion with him regarding what viruses are and how can we avoid the contagion during this onslaught of Coronavirus.
The following are a few points from what we understood:
A virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and convert them into aggressors 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.
The virus is very 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 the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much: 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.
Heat melts fat; this is why it is so good to use water above 25 degrees Celsius for washing hands, clothes and everything. Hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.
Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% dissolves any fat, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.
Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaks it down from the inside.
Oxygenated water helps better after soap, alcohol, and chlorine. Peroxide dissolves the virus protein. But it has to pure.
No bactericide serves any purpose. The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; they cannot kill what is not alive with antibiotics.
Never shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours (fabric and porous), 4 hours (copper, because it is naturally antiseptic; and wood, because it removes all the moisture and does not let it peel off and disintegrates), 24 hours (cardboard), 42 hours (metal) and 72 hours (plastic). But if you shake it or use a feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours and can lodge in your nose.
The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or artificial as air conditioners in houses and cars. They also need moisture to stay stable, and especially darkness. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade it faster.
UV light on any object that may contain it breaks down the virus protein.
The virus cannot go through healthy skin.
Vinegar is not useful because it cannot break down the protective layer of fat.
Neither spirits nor vodka serves any purpose. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65%.
The more confined space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.
This is super said, but you have to wash your hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote control, cell phone, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc. And when using the bathroom.
You also should humidify your hands dried due to so much of washing. The molecules can hide in the micro cracks. The thicker the moisturizer, the better.
Also, keep your nails short so that the virus does not hide there.