How effective is hand sanitizer really? Here’s what you need to know.
The coronavirus continues to be a part of our lives in the fall of 2020, albeit to a far lower percentage in Maryland since the spring. Businesses, schools, and families continue to strive to be cautious as they go about their daily lives with various personal protection equipment (PPE), including hand sanitizer. How effective is hand sanitizer really, and does it work against COVID-19?
What Hand Sanitizer Does
To know how effective hand sanitizer might be, one must look at how it functions. Hand sanitizer is a type of over-the-counter drug containing alcohol. When it contacts your skin, it kills numerous types of bacteria and viruses. Microbes it does not kill include Cryptosporidium, Norovirus, Clostridium Difficile. All the rest, including coronaviruses, are killed off by the drug.
Best Practices
Hand sanitizers are most effective when used properly. Users should read the bottle’s instructions to administer the correct amount and rub it over their hands thoroughly. Parents should supervise its use for children six years and younger. If a child ingests a significant amount of it, call poison control or the emergency room at once. In everyday use, people should apply it after coughing, sneezing, blowing the nose, using the restroom, going out, and before eating. You should also use it only if no soap and water are available.
Can It Kill COVID-19?
Various studies performed in the U.S. and internationally have shown that some hand sanitizers are effective against the coronavirus. It must contain at least 60% alcohol to work. The coronavirus is one of the myriad species of coronaviruses, which range from the common cold virus to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS.) Like any other coronavirus, this famous one becomes inactive under the drug’s attack.
Washing Hands Is Best
Washing hands with soap and water is still the best method. It is not because hand sanitizer doesn’t work, but rather because water and soap actually remove the germs from your hands as opposed to just killing them. As you are on the go, though, it can only help to keep some hand sanitizer on hand.
Hand Sanitizers by FORMost Graphic Communications
If you are looking to continue promoting health and safety at work, FORMost Graphic Communications offers portable hand sanitizers and other fantastic PPE products. Call them today!
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