Omicron – What You Need to Know

At this time, the verdict is still out regarding the severity of Omicron compared to other variants such as Delta. However, preliminary data suggests that people who have previously had COVID-19 could become reinfected more easily with Omicron as compared to other variants.

The World Health Organization says it is unclear if Omicron is more transmissible. However, early data from other sources suggests it has spread more rapidly than earlier versions. Meanwhile, preliminary findings also indicate the incubation period for Omicron is shorter, with those infected showing symptoms in as few as three days as compared to nearly a week for other variants.

While Omicron’s survival rate on surfaces is unclear, the CDC says fomite transmission (the ability to contract the virus from a surface) for other SARS-CoV-2 variants can be as long as three days.

If proper cleaning and disinfecting practices are followed, they are effective against Omicron. If you are unsure proper procedures are being followed, contract with a reputable COVID Omicron disinfecting services provider.

The surfaces that should be cleaned and disinfected to protect against Omicron are the same surfaces that require attention to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and any of its other variants. This includes cleaning all surfaces, then disinfecting high-touch surfaces and those in high-traffic areas or where a threat of Omicron may exist due to a known or suspected case of the variant being present.

The EPA “expects products on List N to kill all strains and variants of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 when used according to the label directions.”

Once the facility has been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected by a COVID Omicron disinfecting services provider, high-touch surfaces and high-traffic areas should be cleaned frequently. Additionally, the FDA recommends frequent hand washing for 20 seconds with soap and water or using hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. Occupants should also be encouraged to get vaccinated, wear masks, and practice social distancing. The CDC also recommends more frequent testing since even vaccinated people can carry and transmit Omicron, even if no symptoms are present.

While there is no special equipment mandated for Omicron disinfecting, top COVID Omicron disinfecting services use electrostatic sprayers to disinfect surfaces using surgical-grade terminal cleaning techniques and disinfectants approved by the EPA to be effective against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.