With all states on high alert over the new mutant COVID strain, and cases found in Queensland hotel quarantine, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has stated: “What we do know is the (new) disease is more contagious, so you can catch it from a surface or from sharing a doorknob or elevator lift, that’s all it takes.”

Alongside high-traffic surface transmission, the role of HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) in spreading the new mutant COVID strain has also been thrust in the spotlight, due to the mystery cases in Brisbane’s Hotel Grand Chancellor.

The latest international advice from WHO and REHVA (Federation of European Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Associations) states that every building, and the spaces within them, need individual assessment – as they vary greatly due to age and design.

Occupational health and safety and infection control consultancy firm, Hibbs & Associates, is advocating for clearer direction for the community around HVAC safety protocols, alongside increased awareness of proper surface hygiene for protection against COVID-19 and its new, high virulent mutant strain.

“While research is ongoing to determine how long COVID-19 remains active on different surfaces and in HVAC units, if a person touches an infected surface or comes in contact with a poorly maintained air conditioning unit, there is a risk of contracting the virus,” said Philip Hibbs.

“Therefore, it’s crucial that HVAC units – including the humble split-system air conditioning unit – are properly maintained. Additionally, businesses and households should check that the cleaning products they are buying have proven virucidal, bactericidal and fungicidal efficacy not only kill the COVID-19 virus, but to also offer longer protection.”

Developed in Australia and ARTG registered, Aeris Active is laboratory tested and proven to kill COVID-19 in 60 seconds due to its patented formulation that combines hydrogen peroxide and ammonium quaternary compounds.

Unlike other disinfectants, Aeris Active kills COVID-19 in 60 seconds and leaves behind an invisible quat-polymer film to ensure residual protection against fungi, bacteria, COVID-19 and other viruses. Aeris Active can be applied once to clean, disinfect and protect even on dirty surfaces.

Sydney gym owner, Ben Lucas, has been using Aeris Active at his Paddington based gym since February this year. He says patrons feel reassured that the gym’s cleaning protocols go beyond current standards to provide added protection.

“As a small business, we’re doing everything we can to make sure we stay COVID-free and open. Having the assurance of 7 day protection against COVID-19 and other viruses reduces the risk of exposure and encourages patrons to continue visiting or return.”

Aeris Active kills COVID-19 and provides up to 7 days protection against the virus and up to 30 days protection against bacteria associated with Influenza, Norovirus, Salmonella and E. Coli.

Watch: How Aeris Active Kills the COVID-19 Virus.