Notes on a Pandemic

Things we should maybe know on this novel coronavirus.

• The virus is not a living organism, 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 25 degrees Celsius 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 between 3 hours for anything fabric and/or porous, 4 hours  for 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.
• The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or artificial as air conditioners in houses and cars.
• They also need moisture to stay stable, and especially darkness. Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade it faster.
• UV LIGHT on any object that may contain it breaks down the virus protein. For example, to disinfect and reuse a mask is perfect. Be careful, it also breaks down collagen--which is protein--in the skin.
• The virus CANNOT go through healthy skin. (That's certainly encouraging).
• Vinegar is NOT useful because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.
• NO SPIRITS, NOR VODKA, serve. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65%. There is one exception here and that is Everclear as it is 95% alcohol.
• LISTERINE IF IT SERVES! It is 65% alcohol.
• The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be. The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.
• You have to wash your hands before and after touching mucosa, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote control, cell phone, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc.  and, of course, when using the bathroom.
• You have to HUMIDIFY HANDS DRY from so much washing them, because the molecules can hide in the micro cracks. The thicker the moisturizer, the better.
• Also, keep your NAILS SHORT so that the virus does not hide there.

Be well, be safe and stay home much as possible.

With gratitude and thanks for the list to Dr. Rob Schaaf