Should I wear a face mask to prevent infection?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requests that we all do our part to slow the spread of the coronavirus.  We can do this by avoiding close contact with others and staying at home as much as possible if not working in a critical infrastructure industry such as healthcare, pharmaceutical, or food supply, etc.  The wearing of a face mask is recommended if you are ill with COVID-19 symptoms, especially if coughing or sneezing, or if you are looking after someone who has the disease. 

If you are not sick or looking after someone who is, then you should still cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others, as you could spread COVID-19 even if you do not feel sick.  Do not, however, use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker and continue to keep a distance of 6 feet between yourself and others, as the face cover is not a substitute for social distancing. NOTE: The CDC does not recommend face coverings for children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

For health care professionals and people who are taking care of the sick in close settings, the U.S. Surgeon General recommends the N95 mask that should be carefully fitted to protect the worker.  Masks are effective only when used in combination with frequent hand-cleaning with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.  If you are wearing a mask, you must know how to use it and dispose of it properly. To help reduce contamination related to the COVID-19 outbreak while caring for the sick or infirm, contact your local PuroClean professionals to schedule regular cleaning. Our industry-certified technicians use EPA-registered hospital-grade disinfecting products, including towelettes, containing pharmaceutical ingredients that meet OSHA’s bloodborne pathogen standard against diseases like the Coronavirus and other disease-causing bacteria, viruses, tuberculosis, mold, and mildew.

Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces are the recommended actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, like Coronavirus. Since any surface can be re-contaminated after cleaning, and because the Coronavirus is also spread person-to-person, PuroClean’s services are not guaranteed to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. Visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention for more information regarding the Coronavirus, its spread, and prevention.

How can I properly disinfect my home to keep it germ-free during my pregnancy after someone sick has visited my home?

As of March 17, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) does not have information specifically regarding how pregnant women are reacting to COVID-19 exposure. However, it should be noted that pregnant women are more susceptible to viral infections, which would include COVID-19.  Pregnant women should be extra diligent and follow routine preventive measures to avoid infection, such as disinfecting their home, washing their hands regularly, and avoiding crowded locations and people who are sick.

PuroClean uses the PuroClean RapidDefense™ system to provide deep mitigation cleaning in areas compromised by a Coronavirus or Influenza outbreak. Using this process, the team at PuroClean will carefully contain the area and will minimize the risk of pathogens spreading using The Environmental Protection Agency-registered (EPA) products. If there are any lingering odors, our trained technicians will deodorize the area and return your South Portland area property back to its pre-loss condition with empathy and care.

Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces are the recommended actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, like coronavirus. Since any surface can be re-contaminated after cleaning, and because the coronavirus is also spread person-to-person, PuroClean’s services are not guaranteed to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information regarding coronavirus, its spread, and prevention.

Why can’t I clean up biohazard myself?

When a biohazard occurs, professionals are needed to clean and disinfect as improper treatment can spread contamination and lead to illness or life-threatening conditions.

What does BBP mean?

Bloodborne pathogens (BBPs), as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), means pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Will my insurance cover crime scene cleanup?

Most homeowners insurance will cover crime scene (biohazard) cleanup. We recommend that you consult your insurance agent/carrier to find out if you can make a claim for your particular circumstance.

Is blood a biohazard?

Blood itself is not a biohazard, it’s what may be in the blood that is potentially hazardous, such as bloodborne pathogens (BBPs) or infectious microorganisms, that can cause diseases.

What does BBP mean?

Bloodborne pathogens (BBPs), as defined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), means pathogenic microorganisms that are present in human blood and can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Why can’t I clean up biohazard myself?

When a biohazard occurs, professionals are needed to clean and disinfect as improper treatment can spread contamination and lead to illness or life-threatening conditions.

What is Biohazard?

Biohazards are any biological contaminants such as those found in sewage, mold, or any viral or bacterial contamination such as MRSA. Biohazards also include toxins found in decaying organisms, as well as bodily fluids.