There are four types of infectious diseases:
Viruses can spread in the air as small droplets or tiny aerosol particles. Germs can spread to the hands by sneezing, coughing, or rubbing the eyes and then can be transferred to others. Simply washing your hands can help prevent such illnesses as the common cold or eye infections.
Germs such as norovirus and rotavirus can cause gastroenteritis, leading to diarrhea and/or vomiting. Usually, germs are transmitted from unclean hands to food or hands by someone who didn’t wash their hands after using the toilet. This is easily prevented by always washing your hands after using the toilet and before preparing food items.
Some infections spread directly when skin or mucous membrane (many parts of the body such as the nose, mouth, throat, and genitals) comes in contact with the skin or mucous membrane of another person. Infections spread indirectly when skin or mucous membrane comes in contact with contaminated objects or surfaces.
Each staff member is trained in infection control procedures upon hire and every year thereafter.
To reduce the spread of germs and the risk of exposure to disease, use single-use vinyl gloves for:
We do not use bleach and water because it irritates skin, is corrosive, and stains furniture and clothing. Most importantly, bleach can exacerbate symptoms in those with asthma and breathing issues.
We use a hospital-grade disinfectant cleaner called Oxivir Five 16. Oxivir is an EPA-approved cleaner and disinfectant that kills a variety of bacteria and viruses and is environmentally friendly. Oxivir is effective against the AIDS virus, hepatitis B and C, staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), salmonella, avian flu, COVID-19, and norovirus.
Oxivir Five 16 comes in a concentrate that we dilute (10 oz. to 5 gallons of water).
Some locations have a dishwasher and washing machine to launder and sanitize toys, bibs, and cleaning cloths.
Any items that come in contact with blood, vomit, or other bodily fluids must be cleaned thoroughly with disposable materials and a sanitizing solution. For vomit, scoop it up (either with paper towels or paper plates) and then sanitize and dry the area (any materials used in cleaning up vomit must be bagged before disposal). All contaminated materials and/or clothing must be double-bagged and sent home, all clean-up materials placed in a plastic bag and disposed of in a covered trash can.
All our schools have an air purification system installed directly into the HVAC system. The Reme Halo system kills microbes in the air and on surfaces. Dual ionizers reduce airborne particulates (dust, dander, pollen, mold spores), which help alleviate allergies, and are proven to kill up to 99% of bacteria, mold, and viruses.
Each program has a ZONO Ozone Cabinet. The Zono kills 99.99% of common viruses on surfaces and can sanitize items used for play and education like books, puzzles, game pieces, exersaucers, mobiles, sleeping mats, and even crayons. It requires no wiping or rinsing of items and leaves no residue.