In the fight against coronavirus, disinfectants are playing a big role. Several countries across the world are practising the habit of spraying disinfectants out on the streets. But as per WHO reports spraying disinfectants on the streets does not eliminate the coronavirus but also leads to severe health problems.
According to a WHO report on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, spraying disinfectants may not be effective. Spraying and fumigation of outdoor spaces such as streets, marketplaces will not destroy COVID-19 virus or other pathogens because as soon as the disinfectant comes in contact with dirt and debris it gets inactivated.
The report also added that streets and pavements are not deemed as reservoirs of infection of COVID-19. Spraying chemical is unlikely to cover all the surfaces for the required duration of time needed to inactivate pathogens.
Also in the rush of sanitization, spraying disinfectants on individuals are not at all recommended under any circumstances. The disinfectant will not help in reducing a person’s ability to spread the virus through droplets or contact. Spraying disinfectants on a human body can lead to eye and skin irritation, bronchospasm and gastrointestinal effects.
The organisation also warned about the use of disinfectants indoors. It is advised to soak a cloth or wipe in the disinfectant and wipe the surfaces instead of spraying.
