Post-Isolation Cleaning Tips for Safe Family Reunions After COVID-19

I would like to inquire about the disinfection measures after recovering from a confirmed case?

Hello, Dr.
Hsiao.
I would like to ask you a question.
After a confirmed COVID-19 case has completed 7 days of isolation, should the room and its contents be disinfected before allowing family members to move back in? Basic items like bedding, tables, chairs, and floors can be wiped down, but I'm unsure how to disinfect items like clothing in the closet, cosmetics and skincare products in drawers, and books and miscellaneous items on shelves, especially since these were used during the isolation period.
Is it possible to skip the disinfection step altogether, or how many days after the isolation should I wait before allowing family members to move back in for safety? Thank you for your hard work during the pandemic, and I appreciate your guidance on this matter.

Zhe Yi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/09/07

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Mr.
Zheyi,
1.
When COVID-19 first emerged, research reports indicated that this coronavirus could survive on various surfaces for different durations: 4-5 days on paper, 4 days on glass, 4 days on wood, 48 hours on steel, 8 hours on surgical gloves, 2-8 hours on aluminum, and 5 days on plastic.
However, these figures should be taken as references, as many factors can influence survival, including temperature, ultraviolet light, airflow, and humidity.
2.
Due to fomite transmission, such viruses can survive longer in the environment.
Therefore, all inanimate objects that may be contaminated with the coronavirus, including clothing and bed linens used by suspected infected individuals, should be cleaned and disinfected with appropriate agents, which is a crucial part of infection control measures.
3.
For items that cannot be disinfected, personal protective measures such as wearing masks and frequent handwashing (especially before touching the face, preparing food, eating, or holding children) are essential.
4.
In our hospitals, we also have a lot of paperwork, and it is not feasible to spray alcohol or bleach on every piece of paper.
Besides allowing the virus to naturally degrade, we rely on each individual's preventive actions.
5.
Strictly speaking, there is no standard answer for your situation.
My personal recommendation is that family members living together should be vaccinated against COVID-19 on schedule.
Make every effort to disinfect every item touched; if that is not possible, allow items to sit in a well-ventilated area for more than five days.
Individuals who are ill and their families should continue to practice self-health management at home, including wearing masks and frequent handwashing.
This follows the 7+7 model! If you have further questions, please discuss them with your trusted physician.

Reply Date: 2022/09/07

More Info

After recovering from COVID-19 and completing the isolation period, it is essential to ensure that your living space is safe for family members to return. The concern about potential virus transmission through surfaces and personal items is valid, as the virus can survive on various surfaces for different lengths of time. Here are some comprehensive cleaning tips and considerations for reuniting with family after isolation.

Cleaning Steps Post-Isolation
1. General Cleaning: Start by cleaning all surfaces in your living space. This includes wiping down tables, chairs, doorknobs, light switches, and other frequently touched surfaces. Use disinfectants that are effective against viruses, such as those containing at least 70% alcohol or EPA-approved disinfectants.

2. Bedding and Linens: Wash all bedding, towels, and any clothing that was used during the isolation period. Use the hottest water setting appropriate for the fabric and dry them thoroughly. High temperatures help to kill any lingering viruses.

3. Personal Items: For items like cosmetics, skincare products, and other personal belongings that were used during isolation, it is advisable to clean them. You can use disinfectant wipes or sprays that are safe for such surfaces. If the items are not easily cleaned, consider leaving them untouched for a period of time (at least 5 days) to allow any potential virus to degrade naturally.

4. Clothing and Fabrics: For clothing that cannot be washed immediately, consider placing them in a sealed bag for a few days. This will minimize the risk of transmission. If washing is possible, do so with hot water and a good detergent.

5. Electronics: Clean your phone and other frequently used electronics with appropriate wipes or sprays designed for electronics. Avoid using excessive liquid, as it can damage the devices.

6. Ventilation: Increase ventilation in your living space by opening windows and doors. Fresh air circulation can help reduce the concentration of any airborne viruses.

Timing for Family Reunions
While cleaning is crucial, timing also plays a significant role in ensuring safety. The CDC and other health organizations recommend a cautious approach:
- Wait at Least 7 Days: After completing isolation, it is generally recommended to wait at least 7 days before allowing family members to return, especially if they are unvaccinated or at higher risk for severe illness. This waiting period allows for any potential lingering virus to diminish.

- Monitor Symptoms: During this waiting period, monitor for any symptoms of COVID-19. If anyone in the household develops symptoms, they should get tested and isolate accordingly.

- Vaccination Status: Encourage family members to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and transmission.

Additional Precautions
- Personal Hygiene: Continue practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks in shared spaces, especially if there are unvaccinated individuals present.

- Health Monitoring: Keep an eye on local COVID-19 case numbers and follow any public health guidelines or recommendations.

- Communication: Discuss with family members about their comfort levels regarding returning to shared spaces. Open communication can help alleviate anxiety and ensure everyone feels safe.

In conclusion, while it is essential to clean and disinfect your living space after recovering from COVID-19, it is equally important to consider the timing of family reunions. By following these cleaning tips and safety measures, you can help ensure a safe and healthy environment for your loved ones. If you have any further questions or concerns, consulting with a healthcare professional is always a good idea.

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