How does personal hygiene compare to mass disinfection?

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Personal Hygiene Offers Superior Protection Against Coronavirus Compared to Mass Disinfection

Handwashing and targeted cleaning of frequently touched surfaces are likely more effective in preventing the spread of the coronavirus than widespread disinfection efforts. While visually striking, mass disinfection campaigns are criticised by disease specialists for being ineffective and potentially hazardous.
Handwashing and Targeted Cleaning as Effective Measures

Infectious disease experts highlight that meticulous personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, is a more impactful strategy than broad-scale disinfection. Additionally, cleaning surfaces that are commonly touched, like elevator buttons or doorknobs, plays a crucial role in reducing transmission pathways. The coronavirus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, but can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one's own face.
Limited Efficacy of Mass Disinfection

Widespread disinfection, often carried out by workers in protective gear, has become a common sight globally. However, experts like Dale Fisher, who chairs the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network, question its utility, stating that the virus does not survive for extended periods on environmental surfaces and that people generally do not come into contact with the ground. This approach is considered a waste of resources and manpower, with little to no impact on controlling the virus's spread.
Potential Health Hazards of Disinfectants

The chemicals used in mass disinfection efforts can pose health risks. For instance, benzalkonium chloride, a disinfectant mentioned in the context of Surabaya, can cause skin irritation in higher concentrations. Experts also note that spraying disinfectants can be toxic to people, causing irritation to the skin, mouth, and eyes. This raises concerns about the safety of such measures, especially when implemented without strict guidelines.
Visible Measures May Boost Morale but Lack Scientific Basis

While mass disinfections are eye-catching and may provide a psychological boost or a sense of action during a pandemic, they are not considered effective virus controls by many health professionals. The focus on visible, large-scale operations might distract from more scientifically supported methods like consistent hand hygiene and sanitising specific high-contact areas. The effectiveness of these visible measures is often debated against the practical benefits of individual sanitation practices.

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How does personal hygiene compare to mass disinfection?

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