Contaminants and Global Pandemics

Viral infections can be a serious threat not only to the safety and well being of you and your family but also to your business and personal assets. It’s extremely important to educate yourself about the risks of global infections and common contaminants to be fully prepared for when life throws you the unexpected. Read more about protecting yourself during an outbreak on our upcoming blog – publishing March 10th on our newsletter. For a CDC and EPA approved disinfectant, use Bioesque Solutions

What are viruses and contaminants?

Viruses are biological organisms that reproduce within the cells of a living host. They are much smaller and more complex than bacteria and are unable to multiply on their own, although they can survive out of the body for a window of time. During viral replication, the virus infects its host by attaching itself to a host cell and penetrating the cellular membrane. Viruses consist of genetic materials (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protective coat of protein, called a capsid. After this replication process within a host, these new viruses can move on to continue the infection process of new hosts. Unlike other microorganisms, viruses are not affected by antibiotics and don’t have a cure. There are, however, antiviral drugs available to treat some specific infections.

Contaminants are substances that are classified as toxic, persistent and a cause for concern to the overall health of humans, plants, and animals. Something that becomes contaminated has the presence of an impurity or constituent that infects, spoils, corrupts or weakens a material, environment or physical body. Contaminants can be classified into three categories: physical, biological and chemical.

The best way to prevent the spread of any virus or bacteria is to get vaccinated and practice good health and hygiene habits.

As the number of confirmed cases rises globally, there is evidence that cases with unknown origin and no ties to international transit will grow in the United States. Iran, Italy, and Korea were the first to see large-scale spread outside of China, prompting a level-three travel warning for these countries. Currently in the United States, California, New York, and Washington have reported similair cases. A number of mass gatherings and events have already been postponed or cancelled.

During the spread of the coronavirus, there are specific types of third-party claims that may arise:

• Commercial property and general liability claims:If your policy covers losses resulting from bodily injury or property damage caused by infectious diseases, you may held liable if a disease is contracted in your property or business.
• Medical malpractice claims:As the number of cases increase, so does the failure to properly diagnose, treat or quarantine coronavirus.
• Common travel claims: Global travelers may claim failure to prevent exposure or warn travelers of the risks of exposure.
• Event Cancellation policies:insures against loss arising out of the cancellation, interruption, or postponement of a covered event, so long as the source of the cancellation or postponement is covered under the insured’s policy.
• Business interruption insurance: (also known as business income insurance) is a type of insurance that covers the loss of income that a business suffers after a disaster. The income loss covered may be due to disaster-related closing of the business facility or due to the rebuilding process after a disaster.

Insurance carriers may be changing coverage to exclude or limit exposures to coronavirus-type claims. Carriers may try to add, broaden or “clarify” exclusions, or sub limit exposures on renewals or new business. Stay informed of the latest policy changes to remain an educated consumer.

There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19 and the impact of this virus is growing everyday, effecting the global economy and setting off growing concerns for a pandemic. In the case this virus continues to grow, cities may even require mandatory 14 day quarantine periods. In order to help prevent the spread of the virus and keep yourself healthy, follow these simple practices:

• Wash your hands for 20+ seconds with soap and warm water.Or about the time it takes to sing Happy Birthday twice.
• Avoid touching your face, eyes, mouth, nose or any open wounds.Don’t forget to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Regularly disinfect your home and workspace.Keeping the environments that you frequent clean and disinfected is essential. For a CDC and EPA approved disinfectant, use Bioesque Solutions
• Disinfect your electronic devices. Your cell phone, laptop, headphones and other devices can carry germs – clean them regularly.
• If you feel sick, stay home. Prevent spreading any sickness to your co-workers. In the case you feel ill, call your doctor immediately and document your symptoms.
• Keep distance from crowded public spaces. The safest way to prevent the spread of a virus to avoid large crowds and public transportation. Use a napkin or handkerchief to touch public handles.
• Keep hand sanitizer on you at all times. from crowded public spaces. Make your own at home by mixing aloe vera, essential oils and medical grade rubbing alcohol.

Understanding the Coronavirus and its impact is constantly evolving, be sure to sign up for our newsletter to stay informed! Reach out to us for more information on how your coverage may be impacted and what risk considerations you may want to keep in mind. Call (866) 49-MYCLAIM to speak with us today!

You can also find more information about the virus from these websites:

• CDC / Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (updated daily with advice for public)
• Texas Department of State Health Services
• Travis County Health & Human Services
• World Health Organization
• U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration

The World Health Organization has yet to declare the coronavirus a global pandemic. As public health concerns arise, the effects on commerce have been deeply felt due to travel bans, global event cancellations, and city-wide shut downs, with more to be expected. Below is a list of the some of the most recent updates:

• SXSW cancelled Mar 12 -22 (Austin, TX)
• Facebook F8 cancelled May 6-8 (San Jose, CA)
• The London Book Fair Mar 10 -12 (UK)
• Ultra Music Festival Mar 20-22 (Miami, FL)
• TED 2020 Apr 20-24 (Vancouver)

Click here to read the massive list of all affected events.