Many vehicles are parked now, waiting to start their engines again. But other are still moving, in spite of the confinement. They’re being driven by the workers to do their jobs. Also, by people who are going to buy food, visit a dependent, or get to a hospital or health care centre.
But now the insides of all these vehicles, like any other small, enclosed spaces, can become a focus of infection by the COVID-19 virus if the adequate hygienic measures are not used.
Special precautions should be taken by those drivers who are now driving under conditions that could be considered risky, for example transporting somebody who has the flu symptoms. Also, by anyone who is going to use a car that other people have driven. But, How to disinfect a car?
In all these cases, the best thing to do is fully disinfect areas like the steering wheel, the gear lever, the dashboard, the safety belts and the door handles.
Cleaning products that are normally used in the home can be too aggressive for some parts of our car. But it is recommended that the ones that are used contain at least 70% alcohol so as to guarantee total disinfection.
Fort the more delicate areas, such as the seats, soap and water can be used. In some cases, alcohol can be used, although with moderation, because it can damage the upholstery.
Ventilation is something else that should be taken into account. Some studies suggest that the coronavirus particles can survive in the air for up to three hours, so it’s necessary that there be full ventilation inside the car and that the grating on the air conditioning be cleaned.
When getting in and out of the vehicle, for example to refuel, it is recommended that gloves be used. If you don’t have any, the best thing to use is to use some hand disinfectant once you’re back in the car.
Just a few days ago the Spanish government modified the rules about driving during the quarantine to stress that vehicles with two people inside can be on the road, as long as the trip is justified and the passenger is in in the back seat. Every precaution must be taken.
