Understanding Lysol and Coronavirus: Why Lysol BRAND Knew Before the Outbreak
Many people question why a product like Lysol, made in the USA, seemed to know about the coronavirus even before it broke out on the global stage. This article aims to clear up any misunderstandings and shed light on the scientific basis behind the effectiveness of Lysol products in combatting novel viruses.
Dispelling Misconceptions
It's important to address the common misconceptions surrounding Lysol and the coronavirus. The idea that Lysol knew about the virus before it broke out is a misconception fueled by fear and panic. In reality, Lysol is a brand known for its cleaning and disinfecting products in the United States. According to official sources, their products are manufactured locally, and they cater primarily to American consumers.
A recent graph produced by John Hopkins shows that the United States is currently the top nation in terms of mortality related to the coronavirus, with over 86,000 deaths. This tragic statistic underscores the unprecedented impact of the virus, highlighting that nobody predicted the scale of devastation until it was too late.
Understanding Coronaviruses
Coronaviruses are part of a vast and varied family of viruses that have been circulating for many years. These viruses are known to cause common colds and other respiratory illnesses. The term 'coronavirus' itself isn't new, but the specific strain responsible for the current pandemic, SARS-CoV-2, is novel. When the Lysol label mentions coronaviruses, it refers to the broader family of these viruses, not the specific novel strain.
The definition of a "novel coronavirus" for COVID-19 is that it is a new strain that hasn't been seen before in the human population. Scientists and manufacturers like Lysol assume that their disinfectants, which are effective against previously known strains, will also be effective against the novel coronavirus. This assumption is based on the principle that if a product can kill common viruses, it's reasonable to believe it can also kill the new strain.
Chemical Cleaners and Antiviral Drugs
Chemical cleaners and antiviral drugs, though similar in some ways, operate on fundamentally different principles. Antiviral drugs work by targeting specific mechanisms within the virus, much like how a poison might affect an organism. However, chemical cleaners function more like a bomb, destroying nearly everything in their path, including the virus, bacteria, and even human cells.
Unlike antiviral drugs, which might evolve in response to the drug, viruses cannot mutate enough to resist concentrated cleaners on a molecular level. Most viruses require a specific environment to survive, and they can often be washed away by regular handwashing. A few viruses can form stable spores, but these spores are typically non-active and will be washed away before they can reactivate.
Why Lysol Works
The effectiveness of Lysol lies in its ability to target the outer membrane of viruses, which is often weak and susceptible to destruction by strong chemicals. Unlike antiviral drugs, which can develop resistance, viruses cannot develop resistance to chemical cleaners on a molecular level. This is why Lysol and similar disinfectants are so effective against a wide range of viruses, including the novel coronavirus.
It's important to note that using chemical cleaners like Lysol should not be confused with antiviral drug treatment. While chemical cleaners can effectively kill viruses, they do not offer the targeted, specific therapy that antivirals provide. Additionally, overuse of chemical cleaners can be harmful to human health, as they can cause respiratory issues and other health problems.
Understanding the science behind Lysol and its effectiveness against viruses is crucial for making informed decisions about personal and public health. While the current pandemic has shown us the importance of robust disinfection practices, it's also important to use these products responsibly and in conjunction with other public health measures.