“Commission or revenue may be earned by Hearst Magazines and Yahoo through the links provided. While hand sanitizer is not effective against all pathogens and is not as efficient as proper hand washing, there are alternative methods to reduce the risk of illness during this season. Although hand sanitizer has been considered a valuable tool for hygiene and illness prevention for years, infectious disease experts advise that it may not be the most effective way to keep your hands clean. Despite the increased use of hand sanitizer during the COVID-19 pandemic, research has shown that it may not work against certain illness-causing viruses, parasites, and bacteria. Notable experts in the field include Thomas Russo, M.D., William Schaffner, M.D., and Amesh A. Adalja, M.D., who provide insights on the limitations of hand sanitizers.
While hand sanitizers can be helpful in inactivating many viruses, including influenza and SARS-CoV-2, they are not suitable for heavily soiled hands. Additionally, they may not be effective against certain bacteria and pathogens. Common germs that hand sanitizers may not kill include norovirus and cryptosporidium. These organisms require specific preventive measures, such as thorough handwashing and proper food handling, to reduce the risk of illness.”
Clostridium difficile is a bacterium that can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea and intestinal inflammation, as reported by the U.S. National Library of Medicine. It stands as the primary cause of infectious diarrhea in medical facilities and long-term care settings. Although anyone can fall victim to Clostridium difficile, certain risk factors elevate the likelihood of infection, including age (65 years and older), compromised immune systems, and recent hospital or nursing care facility stays.
Notably, hand sanitizer is ineffective against Clostridium difficile. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advise thorough handwashing with soap and water after using the restroom and before meals to reduce the risk of infection. According to Dr. Schaffner, the most effective hand hygiene method remains soap and water.
To properly wash your hands, adhere to the CDC’s guidelines as follows:
1. Wet hands with clean, running water.
2. Apply soap.
3. Lather hands by rubbing them together, ensuring coverage on the backs, between fingers, and under nails.
4. Scrub hands for a minimum of 20 seconds.
5. Rinse hands thoroughly under clean, running water.
6. Dry hands with a clean towel.
In instances where soap and water are unavailable, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content is a suitable alternative, as recommended by Dr. Russo. The CDC instructs applying hand sanitizer to one palm and rubbing it across all hand surfaces until dry.
Combatting respiratory viruses during winter is crucial, with Dr. Russo emphasizing their prevalence during this season. While hand hygiene is vital, respiratory viruses primarily spread through droplets and infected surfaces. Dr. Schaffner underscores the significance of vaccination against prevalent respiratory viruses such as influenza, COVID-19, and RSV, particularly for older adults. Highlighting underutilization, he stresses the importance of maximizing vaccine benefits.
Additionally, wearing masks in crowded indoor settings can serve as a protective measure against respiratory viruses, according to Dr. Russo. In scenarios where individuals must choose between hand hygiene, mask-wearing, and hand sanitizer, the mask emerges as the most effective safeguard.
As we navigate through winter and the potential for viral illnesses, adopting comprehensive preventive measures such as proper hand hygiene, vaccination, and mask-wearing can significantly reduce transmission risks. Dr. Schaffner and Dr. Russo advocate for a holistic approach to health protection, encompassing various preventive strategies tailored to combat the diverse threats posed by seasonal viruses.
In conclusion, prioritizing hand hygiene, vaccination, and mask-wearing serves as a triple defense against the transmission of viral infections, safeguarding individuals during the winter months when respiratory illnesses are most prevalent. By adhering to these preventive measures, individuals can fortify their immune defenses and mitigate the risks associated with viral outbreaks.
