Biology of the Virus

Good Afternoon,

I would like to share some extremely useful information published by a Swiss scientist about the biology of viruses. This is excellent, common sense advice on what exactly a virus is, how it thrives, and how best to combat it to keep you, your family, your home, your community, and our participants safe during this pandemic.

•  A virus is not a living organism. It is only a molecule of protein (DNA) covered by a protective layer of fat (or lipids). Since the virus is not a living organism, it doesn’t die. Rather it disintegrates on its own. The length of time it takes to disintegrate depends on temperature, humidity and the type of material it comes into contact with. The virus is able to multiply when on mucous membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth, which is why it is so important to wash your hands frequently, and to avoid touching your face.

•  A virus is very fragile. The only thing that protects it is a thin external layer of fat. Soap or detergents are lethal to a virus because suds break down fats. So when washing your hands, it is vital to lather up for 20 seconds or more to produce as many suds as possible. Once the outer layer of fat is dissolved, the molecule of protein falls apart and the virus disintegrates. 

•  Heat also melts fat, that is why it is best to use water that is at as warm as you can stand to wash your hands, clothes, etc. Hot water also creates more suds and that’s good.

• Rubbing alcohol or any solution that contains more than 65% alcohol will dissolve the outer fat layer of the virus. Alcoholic beverages will not work, as they do not contain 65% pure alcohol. Listerine does work. It is 65% alcohol. 

•  Any mixture of 1-part Clorox and 5-parts water will directly dissolve the protein, which kills it from the inside.

•  100% hydrogen peroxide is also effective at dissolving the protein of the virus, but it is very hard on the human skin, so not ideal.

•  Bacteriacides DO NOT work since they kill living organisms. Since the virus is not a living organism, bacteriacides, antibiotics and antibacterial products are not effective.

•  Vinegar does not work because it doesn’t dissolve the protective layer of fat. 

•  NEVER shake clothes you have worn (or not worn), sheets or anything made of cloth that may have been exposed to the virus. If undisturbed, the virus will naturally disintegrate in:

3 hours if on a porous surface such as clothes

4 hours on copper, which is naturally antiseptic

4 hours on wood

24 hours on cardboard

42 hours on metal

72 hours on plastic

 •  Don’t dust or use a duster as the molecules of the virus will float in the air for up to 3 hours and can lodge in the nose.

The molecules of the virus need humidity and darkness to be stable. It will disintegrate much more rapidly in environments that are dehumidified, dry, and have a lot of light. The more confined space the virus is in, the more concentrated it becomes. Open air and natural ventilation are the best.

Be well!

Heidi