The World Health Organisation says that surfaces and objects touched by coronavirus patients are some of the ways through which the virus is spread. On some materials, it can remain infectious for many hours. The New Times’ Michel Nkurunziza has compiled a list of everyday objects you should avoid touching, if you can, and what you should do to minimize the contamination. Workplace objects WHO guidelines say that surfaces such as desks and tables, telephones, keyboards and other frequently touched objects need to be wiped with cleaners and disinfectants regularly. This should be done while practicing regular and thorough handwashing. Mobile phones A smartphone is said to carry more germs and bacteria than a toilet seat. Thus, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and World Health Organisation have advised regular disinfection of touched objects and surfaces. This is partly to keep the phone free from contamination. When it becomes necessary to clean phones, it is advised to avoid using rubbing alcohol, disinfectants, or similar sprays because it can damage the device screen. Instead, it is advised to use a microfiber cloth and dampen it lightly with soap and water or use UV sanitation device—an electronic device that beams UV-C rays at your phone to kill germs. Keys Since they are a metal surface, keys can host the coronavirus for many hours. It is advised to keep them clean by disinfecting them with a solution containing at least 70 per cent of alcohol content. Washing hands after using the keys is also paramount. ATMs and lift buttons Because Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and lift buttons are touched regularly by many people in quick succession, it is advised to wash your hands or sanitise as soon as possible before touching your eyes. Another recommended way is to embrace contactless payment systems such as mobile money payments. In Rwanda, mobile banking platforms have been introduced by banks in order to facilitate the transfer of money from accounts to mobile phones or other banks without necessarily using ATMs. Wearing gloves while using an ATM and lift buttons is also an effective way to stop the virus spread. This is in addition to thorough handwashing afterwards. Money Money, in the form of cash, debit and credit cards are some of the objects that can spread coronavirus. Again, cashless payment platforms that have been introduced by banks and telecom operators can help reduce the risk caused by the use of cash. Banks have eased mobile banking systems while telecom operators waived mobile money transfer fees. In early March, the WHO advised people to avoid using cash, and use contactless pay systems. Door handles, commuting poles, remote control devices Touching door handles and other similar hard surfaces has a risk of transmission of coronavirus. The best thing to do is be mindful of the surface you touch and don’t touch your face until you wash your hands afterwards.
