SMALL THINGS MATTER

WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION GUIDELINES

While water is often called a “universal solvent”, it cannot directly remove hydrophobic substances such as fats and oils often present on soiled hands. Proper handwashing therefore requires the use of soaps or detergents to dissolve fatty materials and facilitate their subsequent flushing with water.

DRYING

Reusing or sharing towels should be avoided because of the risk of cross-infection. When clean or disposable towels are used, it is important to pat the skin rather than rub it, to avoid cracking.

SOAPS

Their cleansing activity can be attributed to their detergent properties which result in the removal of lipid and adhering dirt, soil, and various organic substances from the hands.

ALCOHOL SOLUTIONS

Alcohol solutions containing 60–80% alcohol are most effective (to denature virus proteins), with higher concentrations being less potent. This paradox results from the fact that proteins are not denatured easily in the absence of water. However, even well-tolerated alcohol-based handrubs containing humectants may cause a transient stinging sensation at the site of any broken skin.

Plain soap is good enough. These (2019-ncov) are envelope viruses which are destroyed by the soap’s detergent effect. In case of alcohol handrubs, it is good to rub with 2.5 to 3ml, or 5ml if you have big hands. If your hands are visibly soiled, like if someone sneezed on them, then the alcohol will not be very effective. If we use alcohol gel frequently, then the emollients in it, which are basically fats, build up. To remove that you need use soap anyway. AN EXPERT TO HINDUSTAN TIMES