The world has barely recovered from the onslaught of the Delta variant of the Covid-19 virus and suddenly we are thrown a curveball in the form of yet another easily transmissible Variant of Concern (VOC) – the Omicron variant. Although currently there are not many details available with regards to the Omicron variant, the Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) anticipate that anyone with the Omicron infection can spread the virus to others easily, even if they are vaccinated or are asymptomatic. Our government has reacted swiftly by issuing a travel ban to several African countries, where the Omicron variant was first detected.
Despite the successes of our vaccination program and the constant reminders to mask up, social distance and clean our hands with soap and water or hand sanitizers frequently, we need to embrace the fact that Covid-19 is not going anywhere. As Malaysians (and the world) transition to endemic living, what else can we do to mitigate the chances of being infected with the virus? The CDC recommends the following key methods to prevent and reduce the spread of the Covid-19 virus:
1. Promote outdoor air circulation into indoor areas
While once quiet and desolate due to the many lockdowns, offices and high-rise buildings are now abuzz with activity, with more organizations returning to the Work-From-Office routine. It is a good habit to practice opening windows and doors to increase air flow and to promote good air ventilation. Many of us are so used to the comfortable breeze from the air conditioner but even a slightly open window can introduce beneficial outdoor air. Good air flow results in good ventilation and lack of recycled air, which minimizes the risk of transmission through small respiratory droplets.
2. Improve central air filtration
If outdoor air is not an option due to bad weather or hazards, air filtration should be increased without significantly reducing airflow. Air filters should be properly sized and used within their recommended service life.
3. Use High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filtration system or air sterilizers indoors
Air sterilizers with HEPA filters are 99.97% effective in capturing human-generated viral particles associated with SARS-CoV-2. While these air purifiers do not circulate in outdoor air, they are effective in cleaning air within spaces to reduce the concentration of airborne particles, thus reducing the potential for airborne transmission of viruses.
4. Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) Radiation to deactivate viruses
UV-C radiation is known to be an effective sterilizer for air, water and nonporous surfaces and is commonly used to deactivate bacteria and viruses and this include the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Combined with other methods of sterilizing such as the usage of HEPA filtration systems, UV-C can kill viruses efficiently. However, it is essential that our eyes and skin are protected while handling any products that emit UV-C radiation.
maclean’s new product – the UV ASF02 Air Sterilizer – works efficiently to kill up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. The benefits of using portable air sterilizers are aplenty but they are most known for their effective microorganism control. Using HEPA air sterilizers also ensure that no hazardous chemicals are involved, hence protecting the environment. Air sterilizers are also low maintenance and affordable.
The UV ASF02 Air Sterilizer employs a five-step filtration system to effectively generate clean air and to filter our virus-sized particles and can provide coverage up to 650 square feet.
Step 1:
The UV ASF02 Air Sterilizer pre-filters out large dust and allergens including hair, animal fur, dander and dirt particles.
Step 2:
It’s HEPA13 Filter filters out 99.97% of germs and microorganisms. This step eliminates dust, pollen, mites, fur, unpleasant smells, waste gas, germs and bacteria.
Step 3:
Active carbon filter removes poisonous gas and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC).
Steps 4 & 5:
Utilizes UVA and UVC light to further break down odours, germs, bacteria, viruses, fungus and other unwanted trace elements. UVC light inactivates microorganisms captured on the HEPA filter.
maclean proactively keeps abreast with the latest cleaning innovations, and we find joy in bringing to you the latest technology on disinfecting and sanitizing. Our aim is to ensure that our service goes a long way in keeping you and the people around you safe. Even though we are very close to achieving a 100% adult vaccination rate, we must not let our guard down and continue to be vigilant.
If you would like to find out more about maclean’s UV ASF02 Air Sterilizer, please do not hesitate to contact us today.