Use Of Alcohol-based Sanitizers Research Articles

A systematic overview of metal nanoparticles as alternative disinfectants for emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Coronaviruses are a diverse family of viruses, and new strains can emerge. While the majority of coronavirus strains cause mild respiratory illnesses, a few are responsible for severe diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, is an example of a coronavirus that has led to a pandemic. Coronaviruses can mutate over time, potentially leading to the emergence of new variants. Some of these variants may have increased transmissibility or resistance to existing vaccines and treatments. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in the recent past has sparked innovation in curbing virus spread, with sanitizers and disinfectants taking center stage. These essential tools hinder pathogen dissemination, especially for unvaccinated or rapidly mutating viruses. The World Health Organization supports the use of alcohol-based sanitizers and disinfectants globally against pandemics. However, there are ongoing concerns about their widespread usage and their potential impact on human health, animal well-being, and ecological equilibrium. In this ever-changing scenario, metal nanoparticles hold promise in combating a range of pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, as well as other viruses such as norovirus, influenza, and HIV-1. This review explores their potential as non-alcoholic champions against SARS-CoV-2 and other pandemics of tomorrow. This extends beyond metal nanoparticles and advocates a balanced examination of pandemic control tools, exploring their strengths and weaknesses. The manuscript thus involves the evaluation of metal nanoparticle-based alternative approaches as hand sanitizers and disinfectants, providing a comprehensive perspective on this critical issue.

Moringa and Spirulina: Mini Review on their use against COVID-19

The world woke up in 2020 with a new virus called coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). The virus spread easily from Wuhan, a western province in China to the whole world and caused a pandemic situation. Some preventive measures such as wearing of face masks and the use of alcohol-based sanitizers have been prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO). All these measures could not effectively handle the virus, and the world started to search for a new solution by using herbal medicines. This mini-review discusses the use of Moringa and spirulina to combat COVID-19.

Comparing the antibacterial efficacy and functionality of different commercial alcohol-based sanitizers.

The use of alcohol-based sanitizers has been recommended as an effective alternative to clean hands, especially in the case when hand washing is not doable. This is especially critical with the COVID-19 pandemic, where personal hygiene is an important factor to deter the spread of the virus. This study assesses and evaluates the differences in antibacterial efficacy and functionalities of five different commercial alcohol-based sanitizers with different formulations. All sanitizers were able to provide instant sanitization functionality, effectively killing 5x105 CFU/mL of inoculated bacteria. However, comparing pure alcohol-based sanitizers against alcohol-based sanitizers with a secondary active ingredient demonstrated that the addition of a secondary active ingredient enhanced the effectiveness and functionalities of the sanitizers. Alcohol-based sanitizers with secondary active ingredients demonstrated a more rapid antimicrobial mode of action, eradicating all 106 CFU/mL of bacteria within 15 seconds of contact, in contrast to the 30 min for purely alcohol-based sanitizers. The secondary active ingredient also provided additional anti-biofilm functionality to prevent opportunistic microbes from attaching and proliferating on the treated surface, leading to serious biofilm formation. On top of that, treatment of surfaces with alcohol-based sanitizers with secondary active ingredients also imparted prolonged antimicrobial protection to the surface lasting up to 24 h. On the other hand, purely alcohol-based sanitizers do not seem to possess such quality with the treated surface being vulnerable to microbial contamination within minutes after application. These results highlighted the benefits of adding a secondary active ingredient in sanitizer formulation. However, care needs to be taken to evaluate the type and concentration of antimicrobial agents chosen as the secondary active ingredient.

Impact on touch DNA of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer used in COVID-19 prevention

In the last years, forensic research has been focused on touch DNA in order to improve its evidential value in criminal activity investigations as well as to understand the variables impacting touch DNA. One of the emerging variables is represented by the use of alcohol-based sanitizers, which was suggested for hand hygiene during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aims of the present study were to assess the effect of a hand sanitizer on touch DNA deposition, transfer, and recovery and also to evaluate STR typing success, quality of DNA profiles, and personal identification. Before and after the use of an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, 20 volunteers deposited on glass surfaces 120 fingerprints, containing skin-derived or salivary DNA. Samples were quantified by real-time quantitative PCR (q-PCR), and 76 samples yielding > 15 pg/μl were typed for 21 autosomal STRs by GlobalFiler® PCR Amplification Kit. DNA profiles were classified into single source, mixed, and inconclusive profiles, and a LR assessment was performed by comparison to the reference samples using LRmix Studio software. After the use of hand sanitizer, samples yielded lower quantities of recovered transferred DNA, especially considering samples containing salivary DNA (p < 0.05 by Friedman test). All the 76 amplified samples (63.3% of the total) showed at least 10 typed loci, and 83–100% of profiles were consistent with the reference ones on the basis of a LR value ≥ 106. Results showed that, although the hand sanitizer reduces the DNA recovering, touch DNA samples might still be useful for forensic personal identification even when hand sanitizers are used.

Evaluation of the Adverse Dermatological Effects Due to Frequent Handwashing Accompanying the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: Washing hands regularly is among the key suggestions the World Health Organization (WHO) made for the general public. However, intensive handwashing can cause hand dermatitis and is associated with illnesses such as methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infection. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and consequences of handwashing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a convenience sample of 5000 participants in Saudi Arabia and captured participant handwashing practices, glove use, and potential dermatological side effects from regular handwashing. Data were obtained using a pretested questionnaire and then analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 24. Results: The majority of participants (80%) repeatedly washed their hands with sanitizers and disinfectants. Only 31% used moisturizing soap, and 19% used warm water. A quarter of participants washed their hands for 20–30 s, and roughly 26% washed their hands 1–5 times every day. Moreover, 27% of participants experienced contact dermatitis on their skin because of the use of gloves and sterilizers. Conclusion: The repeated use of alcohol-based sanitizers in handwashing is associated with a high risk of eczema in about 27%. Decreasing the number of times they wash their hands and the use of detergents while using more emollients and nonpowdered gloves, may be helpful for avoiding hand dermatitis.

Skin Irritation Associated with Hand Hygiene Practice and Use of Face Mask during COVID-19 Pandemic among the People in Gazipur, Bangladesh

Background: In COVID-19 pandemic increasing the frequency of hand washing and disinfection is the most important preventive measure of this disease which is causing in deleterious impact on skin among general population. So the aim of the study was to evaluate whether these measures are associated with development of skin damage.&#x0D; Methods: This was a descriptive type of cross-sectional, observational study conducted over a period of six months from April 2021 to September 2021 including 1166 patients coming to some private clinics in Gazipur with skin manifestations. Skin diseases were diagnosed by dermatologist on basis of clinical morphology with appropriate investigations. Data were collected by structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS.&#x0D; Results: Out of 1166 patients, 35.68% reported skin changes or symptoms over hands (ScH), and 13.98% reported skin changes on their face (ScF). Around 87.39% and 86.53% of the participants reported a change in hand washing habits and sanitizer using habits during the COVID-19 pandemic. There were significantly higher percentage (57.21%) of skin conditions in females (ScH: 45.28% vs ScF:17.30%), 43.82% individuals were working in environments requiring frequent hand washing (ScH: 41.88% vs. ScF: 18.59%), 39.88% working in facilities where they have to interact with people during the pandemic (ScH: 42.58% vs. ScF: 19.57%), 5.75% those encountering COVID-19 patients (ScH: 49.25% vs. ScF: 25.64%), 15.78% those exposed to chemicals (ScH: 52.72% vs ScF: 25.82%), and 9.17% healthcare workers (ScH: 57.00% vs ScF: 31.77%). Almost 35.22% reported skin dryness, 9.44% reported changes in the texture, 13.42% reported scaling, 16.52% reported itchiness, 4.46% reported changes in skin color, 14.52% reported redness, and 4.62% reported pain/ burning, while 1.80% reported skin ulcers.&#x0D; Conclusion: Our study suggests that the general population’s skin was negatively affected by COVID-19 precautions where increased frequency of hand washing and the use of alcohol-based sanitizers, overuse of soaps were contributing factors for skin disorders.

Electrolysis Study Effect on Electrolyzed Water as Disinfectant and Sanitizer

The use of harmful alcohol-based disinfectants and sanitizers was a major concern throughout the CoVID-19 era. Frequent use of alcohol-based sanitizer can dry up the skin, and the effect is worsening for individuals with sensitive skin. Alcohol-based disinfectants are flammable and can ignite if used near a flame, spark, or other source of ignition. Using the electrolysis of sodium chloride (NaCl) aqueous solution method, this study aims to make Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl), a safe disinfectant and sanitizer. Two critical parameters were tested on the electrolysis effect of producing HOCl. The first is the amount of sodium chloride (NaCl) present, while the second is the type of electrode used, which are carbon, graphite, and titanium. The results showed that 10 grams of NaCl produces 50-200 ppm of HOCl, which is good for sanitizing purposes, and 30 grams of NaCl produces 500-800 ppm of HOCl, which is good for disinfecting purposes. The graphite electrode was also demonstrated to be capable of producing a clean HOCl solution. Using a UV-vis spectrophotometer, the effectiveness of the HOCl produced was determined, and it was discovered that HOCl is capable of killing bacteria. As a result, HOCl can be applied as a safe disinfectant and sanitizer in the fight against COVID-19.

Alcohol-Based Sanitizers: An Effective Means for Preventing the Spread of Contagious Viral Diseases Including COVID-19

Abstract The global community is struggling with the highly contagious COVID-19. Returning to \normal life" now poses risks, and the use of appropriate protective measures has become necessary to continue daily life and protect public health. The main protective measures to prevent transmission of COVID-19 are masks, soaps and disinfectants. Because coronavirus is a \lipid-enveloped virus", it is very sensitive to lipid-dissolving chemicals and can therefore be effectively removed by washing hands sufficiently with soap and water. However, using an alcohol-based disinfectant is a more viable option for outdoor use. Alcohol-based disinfectants are inexpensive, immediately effective, easy to use and better tolerated by the skin compared to other disinfectants. WHO recommends disinfectants containing 75% isopropanol or 80% ethanol as highly effective in inactivating the SARS-CoV-2-virus. The current review discusses the role of alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHS) in preventing the spread of viruses, their side effects on human health, and suggests the use of alcohol-based sanitizers as potentially effective in combating the current epidemic.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer-induced burns: A harsh reality in current times

Due to the recent coronavirus pandemic, there is a steep rise in the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers (ABHSs) over the past few months. For them to be effective against microorganisms, the minimum recommended concentration of alcohol is 60%. This high alcohol content makes the sanitizers easily flammable. Although, they are extremely convenient to use, they can also prove to be a hazard if used in an improper manner. Guidelines have been published for safe manufacturing and distribution of these sanitizers. There are recommendations for storage and use, which should be adhered to in a strict manner. Their use by children should always be supervised. We report four cases of burn injuries caused by injudicious use of alcohol-based sanitizers. The flammable nature of ABHSs can also be exploited as witnessed in one of our cases. With this report, we wish to emphasize that judicious and correct use of these seemingly benign products is essential.

Effect of Sanitizer on obliteration of SARS –CoV2/COVID 19: A mini review

Corona virus is a respiratory virus which causes infectious Covid-19 (Corona Virus −2019) disease and globally the virus continues to pose major risks of mortality. It is lucid that close links are the key aspect for transitory of communicable Corona virus. Rapid research is in progress to identify prolific drugs and vaccine for Covid-19 however, it is a time consuming process. Social distancing and Sanitizers are helpful in combating virus and safeguarding the human health. Hand sanitizers are prolific when hands washing with soaps are not possible. Sanitizers are effective antibacterial agents and classified into two types as alcohol based and alcohol free. Among which alcohol based sanitizers are prospective in persuading the public needs. Efficient use of alcohol-based sanitizers during this epidemic season could significantly reduce the propagation of corona virus. This review aims at explaining the interactions of virus with hand sanitizers.

Milestone of World Pandemics: A Review on Remedy for COVID-19 Diseases to Revitalize Human Race from Deadly Corona Virus

Viruses are microscopic organisms that can only grow within living host cells. Various types of animals such as Rats, Bat, Cows, snakes, and related wild animals can serve as vehicles of transmission of this group of organisms. Novel SARS-CoV-2 belongs to the Coronaviridae family that was reported to have emanated from Wuhan, China in December 2019. It alerts world response against strange viral respiratory disease. As the world reflects on pandemics historically. Epidemics like the London plague of 1665 and the Plague that emanates from Marseille, France of 1720 claimed millions of lives. Among the most dreadful world pandemics are the “Antonine Plague” which occurred in 165AD and claimed 5 million lives in Egypt, Asia, Italy, and Greece. “Plague of Justinian” was reported to have occurred between the years 541 and 542. In addition to this, “The Flu Pandemic” is also referred to as Spanish flu ravaged the world during the year 1918 to 1920, which is about a century ago.”3rd Plague of 1855” originated from China and was responsible for the death of 10 million Indians within one year.” The Black Death” which is a 7 years long pandemic devastated the world between the years 1346 to 1353. It leads to the death of half of the global population and was by far the worst pandemic. HIV-AIDS has peak record deaths between 2005-2012. In the year 2019/2020 COVID-19 broke out severely than MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV which occurred in recent years. One possible best approach for the control of COVID-19 diseases caused by SARS-CoV-2 is to improve the hosts’ immune system. Evidence shows that inflammatory conditions militate against the immune systems of COVID-19 patients. Some other control strategies will include the use of face masks, physical distancing, hand washing, or use of alcohol-based sanitizers and related personal hygiene are important to contain the diseases.

Sanitizer burns: An alcoholic problem

The use of alcohol-based sanitizer solutions has become ubiquitous during the COVID-19 epidemic. However, the public at large is not aware of the hazards associated with their use. In this article, through three representative cases, we discuss accidental burns occurring due to the use of alcohol-based sanitizers and highlight the hazards associated with flammability of the compound. We also would like to propose precautions to be followed during the sale and use of such products and discuss preventive measures for sanitizer burns.

ROLE OF GEMINI SURFACTANTS IN FIGHT AGAINST COVID19

COVID-19, a pandemic, threatens the entire world by its multiplicative deadly behavior. Virus has caged the world’s people into their homes / isolation as their protective gear. Transmission rate, Case Fatality Rate, and Asymptomatic Transmission parameters determine the savage of COVID-19. More than a couple of months, mankind is staying locked in one’s home, which has never happened in the lifetime of any other generation. World Health Organization highlights the importance of hand Hygiene (Handwashing) by Soap/surfactant for 20 seconds and the use of alcohol-based Sanitizers as a part of personal health care. Soap functions as a weapon for sterilization of any viruses present on the surface. The lipid envelope of virusesis more susceptible to heat, desiccation or action of surfactants. Single tailed Quaternary ammonium compound surfactant is most commonly used as disinfectant or cleaning agent. Similarly, Gemini surfactants can also play a vital role as disinfectant / sanitizerin future. It is suggested that Gemini surfactants have imperative function in Air sanitation. Also, there is a valid comparison of Coronavirus with other SARS diseases. The deadly nature of virus can be understood by knowing its mechanism of action and mode of transmission. Once a chain of human to human transmission is initiated then it is very tricky to rupture the chain.&#x0D;

The Prevalence and Determinants of Hand and Face Dermatitis during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Population-Based Survey.

Background During the current COVID-19 pandemic, prevention is the key to limiting the spread of this disease. The frequent handwashing and use of sanitizers resulted in notable skin changes among some individuals. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and determinants of the new onset of dermatitis during the COVID-19 pandemic in a university population from Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire by sending an invitation link to students and employees of Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University in June 2020. A chi-squared test was used to note differences regarding hand and face dermatitis. Results Of the total 2356 participants, 34.8% reported skin changes or symptoms over hands, and 15.3% reported skin changes on their face during this pandemic. 88.7% of the participants reported a change in handwashing habits during the COVID-19 pandemic, and 62.2% of participants were not using any hand sanitizers before COVID-19 but began using them during the pandemic. There were significantly higher percentage of skin conditions in females (on hands (ScH): 42.6% and face (ScF):19.2%), individuals working in environments requiring frequent handwashing (ScH: 40.3% vs. ScF: 17.2%), those working in facilities where they have to interact with people during the pandemic (ScH: 41.1% vs. ScF: 18.7%), those encountering COVID-19 patients (ScH: 48.6% vs. ScF: 24.8%), those exposed to chemicals (ScH: 48.6% vs. ScF: 24.8%), and healthcare workers (ScH: 51.3% vs. ScF: 24.3%). Conclusion It was found that during the pandemic, skin changes were common among the general population as well as among healthcare workers. The frequency of handwashing and the use of alcohol-based sanitizers were contributing factors for dermatitis. Although hygiene is an extremely important preventive measure in this pandemic, maintaining skin integrity is also vital. Appropriate knowledge and good practice can prevent dermatitis in this pandemic, with regular hydration of the skin being a key factor.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers: Review of Efficacy and Adverse Effect

Objective: The use and adverse effect of alcohol-based hand sanitizers as a preventive measure in combating the spread of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: A literature search of the electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Research gate and Embase was conducted to retrieve articles investigating the protective effect of alcohol-based sanitizers against the spread of COVID-19 as well as its possible adverse effects. The search timeframe ranged from the inception of each database to August 2020. Results: From an initial search of 456 articles, and after the removal of duplicates as well as applying the predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 74 articles were finally included for this systematic review. Results showed promising protective effect of alcohol-based hand sanitizers against the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, no adverse effect was observed after the use of alcohol-based sanitizers though there are certain possible adverse effect identified which includes skin toxicity, risk of skin burn due flammability etc. Conclusion: Alcohol based hand sanitizers are effective against lipophilic viruses which means they are effective against coronaviruses. To ensure efficacy of the product, the recommended ethanol concentrates should be strictly adhered to and regulated. Alcohol based hand sanitizers has few adverse effects ranging from skin toxicity when ethanol concentrates is relatively high and not regulated courtesy of proliferation of fake products in the market. They are known to be flammable in nature and can cause skin burn if the safety and precautionary instructions are not strictly adhered to. Hand hygiene and the use of alcohol based hand sanitizers are effective in preventing direct and indirect spread of COVID-19. Keywords: Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer; Pandemic; COVID-19; Disinfectants; Disease Prevention DOI: 10.7176/JHMN/81-01 Publication date: October 31 st 2020

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers: A systematic Review on Effectiveness and Effects

Objective: The use and adverse effect of alcohol-based hand sanitizers as a preventive measure in combating the spread of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: A literature search of the electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, Research gate and Embase was conducted to retrieve articles investigating the protective effect of alcohol-based sanitizers against the spread of COVID-19 as well as its possible adverse effects. The search timeframe ranged from the inception of each database to August 2020. Results: From an initial search of 456 articles, and after the removal of duplicates as well as applying the predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 74 articles were finally included for this systematic review. Results showed promising protective effect of alcohol-based hand sanitizers against the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, no adverse effect was observed after the use of alcohol-based sanitizers though there are certain possible adverse effect identified which includes skin toxicity, risk of skin burn due flammability etc. Conclusion: Alcohol based hand sanitizers are effective against lipophilic viruses which means they are effective against coronaviruses. To ensure efficacy of the product, the recommended ethanol concentrates should be strictly adhered to and regulated. Alcohol based hand sanitizers has few adverse effects ranging from skin toxicity when ethanol concentrates is relatively high and not regulated courtesy of proliferation of fake products in the market. They are known to be flammable in nature and can cause skin burn if the safety and precautionary instructions are not strictly adhered to. Hand hygiene and the use of alcohol based hand sanitizers are effective in preventing direct and indirect spread of COVID-19.

Contact dermatitis: etiologies of the allergic and irritant type

The term contact dermatitis describes an inflammatory process of the skin that occurs in response to contact with exogenous substances and involves pruritic and erythematous patches. Approximately 80% of all contact dermatitis is primary irritant contact dermatitis (ICD), whereas allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) makes up only 20% of contact dermatitis cases, the estimated prevalence of contact dermatitis in the United States being 1.4%. Among patch-tested patients, nickel has been identified as the most common allergen. Cobalt is the second most common metal allergen and is found in various dental alloys, paints, and coloring components of porcelain and glass. The average prevalence of dermatitis due to p-phenylenediamine (PPD) was found to be 4.3% in Asia, 4.0% in Europe, and 6.2% in North America. Rubber gloves are a major cause of occupational ACD in healthcare workers. Occupations involving frequent handwashing, between 20 and 40 times per day, have shown an increased incidence in cumulative ICD. The prevalence of occupational hand dermatitis was 69.7% in workers that reported a handwashing frequency exceeding 35 times per shift. The use of alcohol-based sanitizers is much more prevalent among today's healthcare workers than frequent handwashing. Both allergic and ICD are worldwide problems.

Reducing Gastroenteritis Occurrences and Their Consequences in Elementary Schools With Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizers

Schools are a source of epidemic seasonal dissemination-in particular gastroenteritis among children and the general population. We assessed the impact of an alcohol-based sanitizer on gastroenteritis and its subsequent consequences. A study was conducted in 2 primary schools over a 17-week period, before and throughout the seasonal gastroenteritis period. The intervention, under strict teacher supervision and in a realistic and long lasting manner, consisted of 1 school rubbing an alcohol-based sanitizer into the hands of the school children. The primary outcome was the proportion of children without any occurrence of gastroenteritis during the study period both in the treated group and the control group, which were 2 separate schools. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the hazard ratio. Secondary outcomes were the number of gastroenteritis episodes, doctor appointments, absenteeism, and working days lost by a parent. Four thousand six hundred fifty-four weekly questionnaires were collected. One hundred fifty-five children presented with at least 1 occurrence of gastroenteritis during the study period: 64 of 259 in the treatment group and 91 of 217 in the control group (χ2 = 16.4, P < 0.0001). The instantaneous risk of primary infection, at any time of the study, for children receiving the treatment was multiplied by 0.52 (95% CI: [0.37,0.71]) compared with children not receiving the treatment. The average number of gastroenteritis episodes was 0.31 in the treatment group and 0.53 in the control group (P < 0.001). Systematic and controlled use of alcohol-based sanitizers during the epidemic season could significantly reduce the incidence of gastroenteritis in primary school children.