Recently, there have been several news stories concerning information on the website of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about how COVID-19 spreads or is transmitted from person to person.^1,2 Several of these news stories are presenting the CDC information in a misleading way by implying that the only important method of COVID-19 spread is through airborne droplets (i.e., from coughs or sneezes from an infected person) and that COVID-19 spread from surface contact is not important. This is false and a misinterpretation of the CDC information and guidance. Here is the information about the spread of COVID-19 directly from the CDC website.³

Hurricanes and natural disasters are terrifying in the moment, with property damage, injuries, and other life disruptions contributing to the overall trauma of the situation. However, the consequences can linger long after the headlines have subsided. Standing water, flooded homes, and excess humidity in indoor environments create a breeding ground for mold, fungus, and bacteria. The destructive force of a hurricane can also damage storage areas and potentially expose people to harmful chemicals.

Hiring an FSQA Manager is not a decision to be taken lightly. This person is responsible for ensuring that food quality and safety practices are correctly followed. When the right person is not in this role, the risks include a drop in quality and, in the worst case, an outbreak that negatively affects consumers and causes damage to your brand. In addition to the appropriate level of training and experience, the ideal FSQA Manager will also have certain qualities that make them more effective in their role.

COVID-19 may be a new virus, but this is not the first time countries have had to address an outbreak. Norovirus, which is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, is a year-round issue, but annually there is a season during which instances of illness are more prevalent, typically from November to April. In the United States, norovirus infects 19-21 million people each year and is responsible for 570-800 deaths. Because it spreads so quickly and easily, it’s not uncommon for localized outbreaks to occur when large numbers of people gather.

Language plays a major role in the regulation of chemicals, and there can be important differences in the terminology that regulators use and the words used by everyday consumers. For example, when many people hear the term “pesticide,” they envision products that are used on crops to kill insects and weeds. It’s true that this is one correct definition, but it’s not the only one. 

As containing the spread of COVID-19 continues to be a top priority, healthcare facilities have stepped up disinfection protocols to protect both patients and staff. Although the virus is predominantly spread through droplets in the air, it may also be transferred via contaminated surfaces. Once transferred to hands, gloves, medical equipment, or shoes, it can then spread to any other surface touched by these contaminated items. In addition to limiting exposure by wearing masks, donning gloves, and other protective measures, frequently disinfecting surfaces can help reduce the spread of the virus through contact.

It might not be pleasant to think about, but we are constantly surrounded by fungus. One species in particular, Aspergillus, is present almost everywhere, including inside homes and other buildings. Although most people are not affected by the presence of common and pervasive fungi, for those with compromised immune systems, it can present a major health risk. 

The products you select for sanitizing a food processing facility or disinfecting a live animal production area will affect more than just how much bacteria is removed. The types of products you use will also influence production times, how much personal protective equipment is required, and the types of training employees must go through. For example, a disinfectant with hazardous properties might take longer to apply because of the safety issues that surround it, as is the case with formaldehyde.

Many people are understandably concerned about coronavirus on surfaces and how long it can stay on different types of materials. As local and national governments continue to take steps to slow the spread of the virus and fewer people come into contact with each other, the possibility of spreading through non-contact means remains. For businesses operating in the food supply chain, landlords turning over apartments, hotel operators, and quarantined individuals receiving packages, it’s important to understand how coronavirus on surfaces can potentially present a risk of exposure.

Why D7 is Superior to other Products for Disinfection of SARS-CoV-2 D7 is an aqueous-based disinfectant that can rapidly neutralize highly toxic chemical and biological materials. The formulation: