Clarification on the CDC Guidance On How COVID-19 Spreads

While there has been some confusion on the recent guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding how COVID-19 spreads, the science around how the disease spreads hasn’t changed, “through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.” The CDC with their updated guidance has simply stratified the risk, stating that “the virus spreads easily between people,’ still acknowledging that “it may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.”

Regardless of how the disease is transmitted, the CDC recommends that individuals and businesses “routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.” Those surfaces include “tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, sinks, etc.”

Cleaning Products That Kill Viruses Like SARS-COV-2

We recently covered some of the myths surrounding coronavirus and understanding how the virus functions is crucial in knowing how to kill it. That’s why the EPA has a list of disinfectants that are effective at killing COVID-19.

“While surface disinfectant products on List N have not been tested specifically against SARS-CoV-2, the cause of COVID-19, EPA expects them to kill the virus because they:

  • Demonstrate efficacy (or effectiveness) against a harder-to-kill virus; or
  • Demonstrate efficacy against another type of human coronavirus similar to SARS-CoV-2.”

Combating COVID-19 with Verifiable Surface Testing

Verifiable surface testing utilizes RT-PCR technology to determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2, the viral cause of COVID-19, on fomites (materials that carry viruses), and hard surfaces. Surface testing adds a new level of measurability and accountability, and is critical to both proactive controls and the efficacy of containment measures. This process can be done pre or post-disinfection, and is recommended to be performed on a regularly scheduled basis after preventative disinfection. Verifiable surface testing demonstrates that you’re doing everything in your power to provide a healthy workplace that is free of known health and safety hazards.

Employee Screening & Testing Could Become a Government Requirement

As many local governments are forming reopening guidelines, we’re seeing an emphasis on employee screening and testing to aid in quick contact tracing. As such, large sports and event venues should keep an eye on evolving local and state guidelines and be proactive with their reopening plans. Planning ahead for future screening and employee testing will make the transition to ‘normal’ operations more seamless.

Commercial Preventive Cleaning & Disinfection

Aftermath Services understands that the health and safety of your staff and fans are on the line. Don’t take any chances; call in the professionals when implementing preventative disinfection protocols or if you’re dealing with a confirmed COVID-19 case at your sports facility. For more information on our cleaning and disinfection procedures visit our COVID-19  webpage or call us directly for assistance at 877-769-6917. We’re available 24/7 and are just a few hours away from your initial call.

Resources for Sports Facilities