CLEANING AND DISINFECTING

• What is the difference between Cleaning and Disinfecting ?

Cleaning removes germs from surfaces ; Disinfection kills germs on surfaces.
Normal soap and detergent is enough to remove germs from surfaces , while household bleach or Lysol ( floor cleaning agents we normally use while mopping ) disinfects surfaces.

• When should I clean ; and when should I disinfect?

For regular household work , keeping surfaces clean is good.  If there is a patient at home, some surfaces like tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks, and electronics are clean.

Any surface contamination with body fluids like vomit, blood , urine should be disinfected with household bleach.

Keeping your mobile, charger watch clean

• How often should a sick person s room be cleaned ?

A sick person s room , if possible , should be kept clean by himself / herself. Otherwise , it should be cleaned on an ‘as needed’ basis.

• What are personal hygiene instructions?

Hands should be kept clean in normal circumstances ; if using soap and water, to clean for atleast 20 seconds, especially after coughing / sneezing , using bathroom , and before preparing food. If using hand sanitizer, use one with atleast 60% alcohol in it. If travelling in public places , keep using hand rub often every 20 – 30 minutes.

• Used utensils , clothes should be washed with soap and water and detergent. It is extre
  mely important to not share food, drinking
  glasses, utensils, cups, plates , clothes, towels.

• How to prepare Household bleach :

Use 5 tablespoons in 4 litres of water or 4 teaspoons in 1 litre of water.