With an increase in cases every day, The City of Portland and the CDC is advising people to prepare for a coronavirus or COVID-19 outbreak in the Portland area and imposing a Shelter in Place. But what cleaning and lifestyle steps should you do to get ready?
With so much information out there, confusion is easy. The novel coronavirus is new and there is much more we will be learning over the following days, weeks and months.
Experts are recommending that you not panic, but prepare as you would for any natural disaster such as a flood or hurricane.
What Are We Doing for the Coronavirus at Domestica?
Cleaning companies will be considered ‘essential services’ during Portland’s Shelter in Place.
Founded in 2001, Domestica prides itself in using environmentally-safe cleaning products and methods that are not harmful to humans or animals.
As the CDC indicates, regular cleaning products are effective in removing germs, lowering their numbers and risk of spreading.
However, in this exceptional situation, we will offer cleaning services using the recommended light bleach solutions that will kill germs.
Contact us to request our disinfecting and cleaning service or with any questions or concerns you might have.
Enhanced Cleaning & Disinfecting Services by Domestica
- All high-touch areas (light switches, door knobs, handles, bathroom & sink fixtures, counters, etc.) disinfected with CDC- and EPA-recommended bleach solution.
- All equipment and supplies disinfected between clients’ homes.
- Cleaning cloths kept separated between homes and washed daily with chlorine bleach.
- CDC-recommended hand washing etiquette practiced by team members before & after cleaning.
- Disposable shoe covers worn in homes and businesses.
- Team members will work alone as often as possible. In cases where they work in a team or when the client is home, they will maintain the recommended distance of six feet.
Steps for Coronavirus Disinfecting & Cleaning
Cleaning is removing germs and dirt from surfaces. Cleaning does not kill germs, but will remove them from surfaces.
Disinfecting is using chemicals such as bleach and alcohol to kill germs. Disinfecting does not clean surfaces but should be done after the area is cleaned.
The CDC recommends cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces in your home’s common areas daily. These include: tables, doorknobs, chairs, light switches, remote controls, handles, toilets, sinks and desks.
Wear disposable gloves when cleaning and disinfecting, and discard them after use. Wash your hands immediately after you remove the gloves.
For dirty surfaces, first clean with a regular household cleaning product (for ex. Seventh Generation Multi-Surface or Bathroom Cleaner)
To disinfect, use a diluted unexpired bleach solution on appropriate surfaces. Use 1/3 cup bleach per gallon or four teaspoons per quart of water. You can also use alcohol solutions with 70% alcohol or any EPA-registered disinfectant.
Check product instructions to determine surface suitability.
For porous surfaces such as rugs or carpets, remove visible contamination and clean according to manufacturer’s instruction. Use an EPA-registered product for viral pathogens on porous surfaces.
Discard any wipes or paper towels after cleaning – do not reuse.
Should You Buy Extra Medication and Food?
Particularly for more vulnerable populations, the CDC recommends having several weeks of extra medication and supplies on hand.
This can include any prescription medication as well as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, which can help lower fever. Make sure to talk to your insurance provider regarding extended supply coverage.
Extra food to have on hand might be things you find comforting while sick: soup or broth and crackers and beverages like 7-Up or Gatorade
By having a stock in place in advance, you are better equipped in case of an outbreak. You will also be able to better practice social distancing by avoiding large crowds at pharmacies and grocery stores.
While up to 80% coronavirus cases are mild – with symptoms similar to a normal cold or flu – being prepared to take care of you and your family is an important preventative step.
What About Working From Home?
If the COVID-19 is present in your community, you should speak to your employer about the possibility of telecommuting.
This is the best course of action, especially if you live in high-density urban areas or take public transportation. If you are currently sick, you definitely must stay home from work.
What Can You Do to Stay Healthy?
The best habit you can have to avoid getting the coronovirus or flu is washing your hands thoroughly and often with regular soap and water and avoid touching your face.
We love Neil Diamond’s update of “Sweet Caroline” for COVID-19 to entertain and motivate you while washing your hands!
Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow. Afterward, discard any tissues and wash your hands.
Social distancing is a good method for avoiding contact with or spreading the coronavirus, but also be sure to pay attention to your mental health and well-being during times of isolation.
What if You Are Sick?
If you feel sick or start to show symptoms such as a fever or dry cough, Harvard Medical School recommends calling your personal doctor first.
Avoid going to the emergency room unless you are experiencing severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, high or low body temperature, confusion or feeling like you might pass you.
Call the emergency department in advance so they can prepare for your arrival.
How to Prepare for Shelter in Place
Vox created a printable list of more ideas to keep your health (and sanity!) during home confinement including”
- Keeping extra cleaning supplies, towels & linens on hand.
- A first-aid kit to take care of minor injuries. This will keep you out of already-overloaded emergency rooms and prevent catching or transmitting the coronavirus.
- Electronics and spare parts. Staying connected is more important than ever and having backup devices will
- Games, movies and popcorn for extended family / roommate time.