Things you may not know about sanitisers: UAE health ministry clarifies misconceptions

Things you may not know about sanitisers: UAE health ministry clarifies misconceptions

Modern alcohol-based hand rubs (if used correctly) should not dry the hand.





Keeping a bottle of sanitiser handy has been part of people's safety check list when heading out amid the new normal. After all, it is the next best thing you can use to keep your hands clean, when soap and water are not available.

However, there are still quite a few things some people are not aware of when it comes to using hand rubs. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (Mohap) recently tweeted a Q and A to help shed light on some misconceptions, urging residents to learn more about these pocket sanitisers.

Here are some of the top questions Mohap answered:

Q: If I overuse alcohol-based hand rubs, will it result in bacteria becoming 'more resistant' to sanitisers?

There is no reported or likely resistance to alcohol-based handrubs. Indeed, the more it is appropriately used, the less antibiotic-resistant bacteria are able to spread.

Q: How many times can someone use such sanitisers?

There is a common misconception that hands should be washed with every four or five applications of alcohol-based hand rub. There is no reason to do this.

Q: Does alcohol dry the hands or sting when applied?

Modern alcohol-based hand