After numerous cases of the corona virus have become known in Europe, there is uncertainty among the population. Are special hygiene measures necessary in the household?
- The novel corona virus is currently causing uncertainty worldwide.
- Many are wondering how they can protect themselves from infection.
- Find out how to take care of hygiene in the household here.
Corona virus arrived in Germany: Are certain preventive measures necessary in the household?
In order to protect yourself from contact with a coronavirus infection *, the Robert Koch Institute - as with other respiratory diseases and flu waves - advises good hand hygiene, coughing and sneezing etiquette and distance from the sick .
With regard to household hygiene, there are no special precautionary measures on the part of the institute and other health organizations in the case of the coronavirus. In principle, however - if you suspect viral diseases in your environment or just to prevent them - you can take the usual hygiene measures that reduce pathogenic germs in your home . The Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA) gives some tips in this regard.
Hygienically cleaning the apartment: Which cleaning agents do I need?
The usual household cleaners are usually sufficient for apartment cleaning. The BZgA declares that antibacterial cleaning agents or cleaning cloths from the supermarket have no advantages and disinfectants do not replace cleaning, since they do not remove dirt. These should only be used in exceptional cases on the advice of a doctor or the health department.
Instead, make sure to use separate cleaning rags in the kitchen, bathroom and toilet and wash them at a minimum of 60 degrees and change them regularly . Make sure that cleaning cloths dry well and quickly after use so that bacteria do not stand a chance.
Also interesting : Coronavirus: what are the symptoms? Lung disease is spreading.
Giving bacteria no chance: This is how you wash properly
For many, the 60-degree wash is still the ultimate in killing germs and bacteria and should also be used for susceptible textiles: these are cleaning and dishcloths as well as towels, washcloths, bed and underwear . Lower temperatures are usually sufficient for other clothing. You can also do without hygiene detergent. But don't forget the washing machine during your hygiene measures: bacteria will find a warm, humid climate here that will allow them to thrive - so let the device run at least 60 degrees in a hot wash once a week.
Household hygiene: tackle viruses with proper ventilation
Regular ventilation is good for the indoor climate anyway and eliminates the risk of mold. But you also reduce the risk of infection with viruses by means of surge ventilation. Because the number of viruses in the air can increase significantly in closed rooms . An improved indoor climate also gives you the advantage that the oral and nasal mucous membranes dry out too much, which helps your immune system defend itself against viruses.
Video: how contagious is the virus?
Also read : Fighting bacteria with bacteria - What are the benefits of probiotic cleaners?
* Merkur.de belongs to the Germany-wide Ippen-Digital editors network
How often do you change toilet brushes, cleaning rags etc.?
To the photo gallery