Disinfecting wipes are perhaps the easiest tools to help disinfect common surfaces
The flu takes a toll on your health. From fever to body aches, the condition sucks out energy from your body. Also, as it can spread easily, the flu virus infects most surfaces that you may come in contact with, thereby calling for a thorough clean-up.
According to experts, you must disinfect your home after the flu to kill germs on various surfaces. Apart from making your house virus-free, it also helps prevent other members of your household or those visiting you from getting sick. The process involves cleaning commonly used surfaces, which kills the viruses and bacteria that lead to illnesses.
Doctors say the exact life span of germs depends on the type of germ—apart from the surface it affects. Generally, the flu survives on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Germs can also survive on unwashed hands for an hour.
Which surfaces can be affected by a virus?
Doctors say the most commonly used surfaces in your home – most likely to have lingering germs include doorknobs, light switches, handles, and stair rails and even if you have been regularly washing hands frequently, viruses and other germs spread if you touch a surface someone else has touched or sneezed on when sick. Do not forget to clean your bed and bed linen as well.
Disinfecting wipes are perhaps the easiest tools to help disinfect common surfaces. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, such as allowing the product to stay wet for enough time to kill germs. Wash your hands after every use.
Cleaning the kitchen
The kitchen is the most used area in the house where everyone – whether they are sick or not, uses a range of drinking glasses, utensils, and dishes. You must collect all of these and wash them in hot, soapy water, or place them in a dishwasher for cleaning.
After you have finished cleaning, move the dishes to one side and make sure to disinfect other areas, like:
- Refrigerator door handles
- Cabinets and drawers
- Countertops
- Sink, including faucets and handles
- Electric appliances like microwaves and ovens
- Garbage cans
Bathroom cleaning is extremely important
Whether you or anyone in the family has been down with the flu, everyone uses bathrooms. And so, it is important to disinfect them, especially:
- Doorknobs
- Sinks and faucets
- Tubs and showers
- Soap dispensers
- Toilet
- Floors
Let some fresh air in
Make sure to open all the doors and windows for some time to let some natural light and fresh air come in. Apart from making you feel better, it also helps reduce the stagnation of germs that may be lingering in the air – which can further spread illness.
Make sure to ventilate your home to air out the house.
While most people recover from the flu within a week, some with low immunity levels may even take longer. So, if you are still recovering from the flu, consider enlisting the help of other household members or friends to help you clean and feel better.
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