Focus: Infection Control

Study: Hand-washing better at killing flu than sanitizer

Hand-washing is better even without soap


A recent study has found that hand-washing, even without soap, is more effective at killing influenza A virus than alcohol-based hand sanitizers, according to an article on the Becker's Clinical Leadership and Infection Control website.

Researchers from the Kyoto (Japan) Profectural University of Medicine found that ethanol-based hand sanitizers must be in contact with influenza A for at least four minutes to completely kill the virus. 

Mucus surrounding influenza A virus droplets protect it from the ethanol in sanitizers.

If soap and water are not available, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended clinicians use ethanol-based disinfectants for at least 15-30 seconds as an effective hand hygiene practice. 

Read the article.



May 14, 2020


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Redefining What Mental Health Facilities Look Like

A new Mental Health and Addictions Center uses design and architecture to challenge the stigma and create a more open model of care.


Managing High-Volume Laundry Operations 

Tips and tricks one director has learned in three decades of managing a large, high-volume laundry operation.


University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Falls Victim to Vendor Data Breach

A health information network named “Health Gorilla” improperly accessed medical records available through the national network used to exchange medical information.


Optimizing the Engineering Design of Ambulatory Care Facilities

Designing cost-effective engineering systems is not about minimizing investment but about investing strategically.


Construction Completed on Washington Health Urgent Care Facility in California

The design team maximized the existing footprint to accommodate five exam rooms, a dedicated procedure room and an X-ray room.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.