If the prevention messages warn about the use of door handles, metro bars, handkerchiefs and other switches, other everyday objects also deserve our full attention as to their risks of contamination with Covid-19.
Mobile phone
Although it is not yet known exactly how often the coronavirus spreads through contact with contaminated surfaces, it was recently shown by scientists at CSIRO (the Australian government body for scientific research) that the virus can survive until ‘to 28 days on smartphones.
On the site, the government site France Num, we can also read: ” Any digital equipment handled with hands and fingers is a nest for germs, potentially viruses too. “. Therefore, it is recommended to wash your hands well before and after each use.
According to Yannick Simonin, professor-researcher in virology at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Montpellier, “ If you touch a surface where the virus is present then your mobile you can contaminate it. […] So if you wash your hands frequently but not the device, you risk contaminating your hands and therefore infecting yourself. “. To which he adds: ” For cleaning, the most effective is probably the application of a disinfectant wipe or a soft cloth to preserve the screen, put in contact with an antiseptic solution, or even a 70% maximum alcohol solution, but not beyond “.
Banknotes and change
Like cellphones, banknotes are one of the smooth surfaces the virus can withstand for up to 28 days, according to the study conducted by CSIRO. Because they are passed from hand to hand, banknotes and coins can be sources of contamination.
Therefore, prefer credit card payments and particularly the contactless mode (the ceiling of which has now been 50 euros since May). At the same time, be sure to wash your hands well (with soap or using a hydro-alcoholic gel) before and after handling banknotes. In the same way, the screens of cash dispensers and self-service checkouts in supermarkets are also concerned, do not forget to bring your hydro-alcoholic solution when traveling.
Jewelry
While no study mentions a potential risk of contamination, jewelry is still one of the objects that may be in direct contact with contaminated surfaces. Especially since jewelry turns out to be additional places where germs come to lodge. In other words, it is essential to remove, clean and disinfect them well, every time you wash your hands. The ideal is not to wear jewelry for the moment.
Lighters
Finally, lighters are also everyday objects that can be sources of potential contamination between smokers. This is because smokers may have the habit of lending or asking for a lighter from other smokers. If having your own lighter seems to be the ideal solution to protect yourself from each other, do not forget to apply the barrier gestures if you dislodge the rule. Namely: wash your hands before and after picking up your lighter if you lend it to someone and vice versa.
