zaidiazmi91

4 years

Covid-19: Should I be worried if hand sanitisers are sold out? Are soaps enough?

I kind of need some corroboration, a second opinion to be precise, on how those who could not buy hand sanitisers – due to it being out of stock – to not panic as soaps are just as good in killing off any viruses one might into contact with.

I read somewhere that soap contains fat-like compounds called amphiphiles that are good at dissolving the lipid layer coating viruses. Is this explanation applicable to Covid-19?

Thank you for the question. For your information, the COVID-19 could be prevented by having a good hygiene especially the hands, nose & mouth. As long as the method of making our body parts is hygienic and clean, it does help. It is not necessarily that we have to use hand sanitiser to ensure that our hands are clean. It just that by using hand sanitiser, it it easier and more convenient way to make our hands clean especially when there is no sink, soap or water.

The guidelines from the Centre of Disease Control (CDC) are as follows:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces

You may consult a MOH doctor by clicking Ask Doctor at the Ministry of Health website (COVID-19 Portal) to ask any health issues related to COVID-19 starting from 8.30 am to 5.00 pm.

After 5.00 pm till 12.00 am, please direct your enquiries to our DoctorOnCall website at this link https://www.doctoroncall.com.my/tanya/.
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Please visit https://covid-19.moh.gov.my/ to get the latest information and guidelines regarding COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccination

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