What Type of Hand Sanitizer Kills Norovirus?
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis. It is a leading cause of illness and outbreaks in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and cruise ships. As such, it is crucial to have effective measures in place to prevent the spread of this virus. One such measure is the use of hand sanitizers. But what type of hand sanitizer kills norovirus?
Firstly, it is important to understand that not all hand sanitizers are equally effective against norovirus. The key factor is the presence of a high concentration of alcohol, specifically ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Studies have shown that these alcohols are effective in killing the norovirus, making them the preferred choice for hand sanitizers.
Hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol are considered effective against norovirus. This concentration ensures that the sanitizers can effectively destroy the virus’s outer envelope, which is essential for its survival and ability to infect cells. Ethyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are both effective in this regard, as they can disrupt the viral envelope and inactivate the virus.
Additionally, it is important to note that some hand sanitizers contain other ingredients that may enhance their effectiveness against norovirus. For instance, benzalkonium chloride, a quaternary ammonium compound, has been shown to have antiviral properties. Hand sanitizers containing benzalkonium chloride in addition to alcohol may offer enhanced protection against norovirus.
However, it is worth mentioning that hand sanitizers with alcohol alone are often sufficient to kill norovirus. In fact, studies have shown that hand sanitizers with a higher alcohol concentration can be more effective than those with lower concentrations. Therefore, when selecting a hand sanitizer, it is advisable to opt for one with a high alcohol concentration, such as 60% or higher.
Moreover, it is important to use hand sanitizers correctly to ensure their effectiveness. To kill norovirus, the hand sanitizer should be applied liberally to the hands, ensuring complete coverage. It should then be rubbed in until the hands feel dry. This process should be repeated regularly, especially after coming into contact with potentially contaminated surfaces or individuals.
In conclusion, the type of hand sanitizer that kills norovirus is one that contains a high concentration of alcohol, such as ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol are considered effective. While additional ingredients like benzalkonium chloride may enhance their effectiveness, alcohol alone is often sufficient. It is crucial to use hand sanitizers correctly to ensure they effectively kill norovirus and prevent its spread.
