The virus is not a living organism

The following is from Irene Ken, physician, whose daughter is an Asst. Prof in infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University, quite informative.

A few comments from me below the quote.

-------------------------------------------------------

* The virus is not a living organism (https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/are-viruses-alive-2004/), but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code. (mutation) and convert them into aggressor and multiplier cells.

* Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and type of material where it lies.

* The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much: for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam).
By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.* HEAT melts fat; this is why it is so good to use water above 77 degrees Fahrenheit for washing hands, clothes and everything. In addition, hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.

* Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% DISSOLVES ANY FAT, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.

* Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaks it down from the inside.

* Oxygenated water helps long after soap, alcohol and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein, but you have to use it pure and it hurts your skin.

* NO BACTERICIDE OR ANTIBIOTIC SERVES. The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; antibodies cannot kill what is not alive.

* NEVER shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth. While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only:

-3 hours (fabric and porous),
-4 hours (copper and wood)
-24 hours (cardboard),
-42 hours (metal) and
-72 hours (plastic).

But if you shake it or use a feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours, and can lodge in your nose.
----------------------------------------------------

I hope the 3 hour disintegration time for fabric and porous is accurate because it means protective garments worn on necessary excursions recover rapidly. Disposable latex gloves are good, but leather gloves are porous and according to this will recover quickly. If we do not go out frequently (the better idea), or for long periods, leather gloves should be an effective defense, and most people already have a pair.

Combining this with the "viral load" idea seems an effective defensive strategy. Viral load suggests minimal exposure is less likely to produce infection than a lot of exposure, which translates to how many viral molecules enter the body ecosystem at the time of exposure. We know exposure typically does not produce infection (symptoms), which is of course good. With exposure we develop antibodies that can be detected in a blood test, but not necessarily infection.

The point is to limit exposure the the extent possible. And to be aware at this point in the curve when we are among people we are probably getting some exposure.

Epidemiologists say it is very unlikely we will develop symptoms from "floating" corona molecules, but in the vicinity of a sneeze or cough the odds of infection (as opposed to exposure) multiply exponentially.

So, we all know but it bears repeating, keep outings to the absolute minimum and as brief as possible, wear gloves, keep distance, and wash hands on return.

We're entering the peak next few weeks, it's time to be as cautious as possible.