After a new report, researchers are saying the Omicron variant survives longer on plastic and skin than other COVID-19 variants. That may be one possible explanation for why Omicron has spread so rapidly around the world.
In a lab experiment, samples of different variants were applied to pieces of plastic and human skin collected from autopsies, researchers from Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine wrote in bioRxiv. A variant “survived” until it could no longer be detected on the surface.
“This study showed that the Omicron variant also has the highest environmental stability among VOCs (variants of concern), which suggests that this high stability might also be one of the factors that have allowed the Omicron variant to replace the Delta variant and spread rapidly,” the researchers wrote.
Omicron on plastic
According to the study, when on plastic:
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- The original version of SARS-CoV-2 survives for 56 hours.
- The Alpha variant survives for 191.3 hours.
- The Beta variant survives for 156.6 hours.
- The Gamma variant survives for 59.3 hours.
- The Delta variant survives for 114 hours.
- The Omicron variant outlasts the other variants, surviving for 193.5 hours.
Omicron on skin
The researchers also found that the different variants of the virus survive on the skin of cadavers for differing durations:
- The original version of SARS-CoV-2 survives for 8.6 hours.
- The Alpha variant survives for 19.6 hours.
- The Beta variant survives for 19.1 hours.
- The Gamma variant survives for 11 hours.
- The Delta variant survives for 16.8 hours.
- The Omicron variant again outlasts the other variants, surviving for 21.1 hours.
How to Clean Omicron
The EPA and CDC recommend List N disinfectants for all variants of SARS-CoV-2; there has not been a change regarding the efficacy of disinfectants.
Below is the EPA Statement in response to questions about disinfectant efficacy against virus variants:
“EPA expects all products on List N to kill all strains (variants)of SARS-CoV-2. Genetic changes to the virus do not impact the efficacy of disinfectants. List N disinfectants work by chemically inactivating viruses. The difficulty of killing a virus depends on its physical features, and mutations to SARS-CoV-2 have not changed the basic physical properties.”
Disinfecting Omicron:
Cleaning without disinfecting is not enough to protect yourself from catching omicron. Therefore, after you wipe down your surfaces with a traditional cleaning solution, you must use a disinfectant to effectively eradicate any active traces of the virus. Otherwise, you will only clean for aesthetic purposes instead of protective purposes.
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Use the correct disinfectants:
Here’s where the cleaning process gets tricky. Not all disinfectants are effective against COVID-19. To find if the disinfectant you’re using will kill all traces of the virus, visit https://cfpub.epa.gov/wizards/disinfectants/ and place the product EPA number in the search bar. If your disinfectant isn’t effective, you may need to take a trip to the store. If you’re not sure what ingredients to look for, pine-sol products are a good option. Pine-sol is a recent addition to the EPA’s list of effective cleaners against COVID-19.
Clean your HVAC system:
Proper air circulation is crucial at preventing traces of the omicron variant from staying in the air. Therefore, make sure to replace your air filter regularly, clean your vents, and schedule a professional air duct cleaning service. In addition, you can place air filters throughout your property to keep the air free of pathogens and germs.
Electrostatic spraying:
Electrostatic spraying services use an air compressor to evenly spray surfaces with electrostatically charged disinfectant. This charge sanitizes spaces with a large force that begins working within two minutes and remains active for up to 4 days. Many schools, hospitals, and other businesses use electrostatic spraying to keep their customers and clients safe. However, only professionals can handle these harsh chemicals. Thankfully, we’re equipped and licensed to get the job done. If you’re interested in electrostatic spraying services, call us today.
