Mutated Gene Projected to be 50% More Contagious —Plasma Air Disinfection at the Source Impedes Transmission
The SARS-Cov-2 virus mutates every couple of weeks. But this mutation was shown to be over 50% more contagious. It also contains 17 mutations. Here is what the study said regarding the changes to the virus as related to transmission.
Combining multiple behavioural and epidemiological data sources with mathematical models, we estimated that the novel SARS-CoV-2 variant VOC 202012/01 is more transmissible than existing circulating SARS-CoV-2 viruses [56%]. As a result of this increased transmissibility, existing control measures are likely to be less effective, and countries may require stronger proactive interventions to achieve the same level of control.
The study also indicated that the new variant may cause detection errors in commercial testing:
This deletion (17 mutations; 14 were non-synonymous and 3 deletions) is also responsible for certain commercial diagnostic assays failing to detect the spike glycoprotein gene (S gene drop-out), with genomic data confirming these S gene target failures are primarily due to the new variant (1). Accordingly, molecular evidence is consistent with a potentially altered infectiousness phenotype for this variant.
Where to fight the battle?
Given SARS-CoV-2’s propensity for transmission as a bioaerosol, portable LEP (Low-Energy Plasma) disinfection devices are emerging as the first line of defense. They may also be the best overall defense. These portable devices can be set on furniture; a roller stand is also available. Clinicians and caregivers are seeing value in placing the units near residents or patients with an infection (or suspected infection), and in public areas, lobbies, cafeterias, treatment and exam rooms, etc.
We looked at the problem tactically and operationally. Like it was a battle plan. Bioaerosols come from human beings. If we have a weapon that can kill them at the source, it just makes sense to kill them there instead of letting ‘the enemy’ go wafting around the facility. Especially when ‘the weapon’ is absolutely lethal.
Betting on infectious bioaerosols making it to the cold air return intake, then being successfully transported without hitting the inside walls to the HVAC units, then moved through a filter … then we kill it with in-duct UV while the air is moving at hundreds of feet per minute. The odds are better pulling it from the air at the source.
Antimicrobial treatments that form persistent covalent bonds with surfaces can also kill bioaerosols that fall from the air. These surface treatments are blown into cold air returns with electrostatic sprayers forming a gauntlet for microbes and pathogens that can last for years.
Surface Treatments: Learn More – https://medformance.com/safer-solutions/
Bottom Line: Plasma Kills Bioaerosols
LEP at the source is proving to be both easier and more effective. Plus, it can be deployed immediately. With a newly modified SARS-CoV-2 variant heading our way, that may be the biggest advantage of portable atmospheric plasma disinfection devices
“The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
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