Stock up on hand sanitiser

WE’RE all doing our best to keep our hands clean these days, days whether by washing them or slathering on hand sanitiser. It’s part of the international effort to curb coronavirus and limit our exposure to dangerous germs. Most of us have a tendency to touch our faces often during the day, which risks spreading germs to our mouth and eyes — a perfect pathway for viruses to spread. A hand sanitiser with at least 60 per cent alcohol is effective at helping you avoid getting sick and spreading germs. While some viruses can be resistant to disinfectants, scientists say that coronavirus is an envelope virus, meaning it has a coating around it which the alcohol can attack, so eliminating the threat. Sanitiser is great to use on the go, as there is no need for soap and water — and no towel drying is required as it evaporates. It’s also good to use after washing your hands if you want the extra reassurance that you have really got rid of those germs. When using, apply it to the palm of one hand and then rub over all surfaces of your hands until they are dry. Using hand sanitiser several times throughout the day can certainly help reduce risk, but it’s particularly important when you return home or to your desk after using public transport, going for a hike, getting groceries or simply walking around the shops. As we move into the colder seasons, it might be a good idea to stock up on hand sanitiser now, in case we see a repeat of the high demand and shortages of the spring.