Clearing the Confusion: Lysol and the Coronavirus

The pervasive label on Lysol products stating that they kill the coronavirus has engendered much confusion. However, it is crucial to understand that the virus mentioned is not the one causing the current pandemic. Coronaviruses, a large family of viruses, include those that cause common colds. Lysol indicates that their product can eliminate the coronavirus responsible for the common cold, but testing against the current pandemic-causing virus has not been completed.

Currently, the label does not explicitly mention the specific virus causing the global pandemic. If Lysol is proven to be effective against the novel coronavirus, the label will be updated. Until then, users should not rely on this product as a solution to the current pandemic.

It's important to note that there are many coronaviruses, and the one responsible for the current pandemic is a novel strain to which we lack immunity. Therefore, relying on general disinfectants may not be entirely effective.

Alternative Disinfectants

While wipes are convenient, a more affordable and effective option is to purchase a small bottle of Lysol. A 12-ounce bottle can create 9 gallons of full-strength disinfectant at a price of $3.44 at Walmart. This provides a more economical and convenient way to ensure homes and public spaces are kept clean and sanitized.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has published a list of approved disinfectants that are effective against coronaviruses. Besides Clorox and Lysol, ethanol alcohol and hydrogen peroxide are recognized. This information is available in an answer on Quora, which you can find by searching online.

However, it is essential to be cautious about claims made on the labels of these products. Some viruses, such as Ebolavirus, have been known to be resistant to disinfectants. Therefore, it is wise to stick to CDC-approved methods and products for effective disinfection.

Coronavirus Vaccines

While there is ongoing development of vaccines for the current strain of coronavirus, existing vaccines are not effective against the novel strain. This has spurred a rush among scientists to develop vaccines that can combat the new variant. However, it is crucial to understand that vaccine development is a lengthy process that requires rigorous testing to ensure safety and efficacy.

According to the CDC, vaccines go through extensive testing before release to ensure they do not cause more harm than good. This extensive testing is both a legal requirement and a sensible safety measure. The process typically involves animal trials, followed by multiple phases of human trials to monitor safety and efficacy.

While some organizations are actively seeking volunteers for vaccine trials, it is highly unlikely that these vaccines will be ready for public use within the next few months. Extensive trials are necessary to confirm that the vaccines are both safe and effective. Until these vaccines are deemed safe and effective by regulatory bodies, they should not be administered outside of controlled trials.

Conclusion

Given the current state of vaccine development, it is important to rely on scientifically-backed methods of prevention and treatment. This includes using approved disinfectants, such as Lysol, ethanol, and hydrogen peroxide, to keep your environment clean and clean home surfaces. Additionally, supporting ongoing research and trials to develop new and effective vaccines remains crucial.

Remember, even the most effective disinfectants may not be universally effective against all coronaviruses, and the novel strain responsible for this pandemic remains a challenge. Stay informed, take precautions, and support scientific efforts to combat this global health issue.