Hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs. Washing of hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19, but when that is not an option, using an authorized hand sanitizer that has an alcohol concentration of at least 60% is recommended by the CDC.
Due to the nature of the ingredients in hand sanitizer, you should always keep hand sanitizer away from very young children and supervise older children (age 7 and above) when they are using hand sanitizer because they are very dangerous if ingested.
Hand Sanitizer Dos:
- Always read and follow the label directions on hand sanitizers.
- Always supervise children when they use hand sanitizer.
- Talk to your children about the safe use of hand sanitizers.
- Call poison control or get medical help right away if swallowed.
- Choose hand washing over hand sanitizer if available.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
- Check the label to ensure the product does not contain technical-grade ethanol.
Hand Sanitizer Don’ts:
- Avoid products packaged in containers that resemble food or beverage containers to avoid possible confusion with edible products.
- Children should not use hand sanitizers containing technical-grade ethanol.
- Avoid storing near, or insight of, children under six years of age.
- You should not make your own hand sanitizer.
- Children should not use disinfectant sprays and wipes instead of hand sanitizer.
- Do not store near heat or flames.
For more information on hand sanitizer safety, please visit the following resources:
- FDA: Safely Using Hand Sanitizer
- FDA: Updates on hand sanitizers consumers should not use
- CDC: How to Select and Use Hand Sanitizer
Especially during COVID-19, hand sanitizers are a convenient alternative when handwashing with soap and water isn’t possible, but there are very important warnings that come along with them. Make sure your children know and practice hand sanitizer safety.
If an accident does happen, please keep Pediatric Urgent Care of Northern Colorado in mind. We are ready to help and treat your child 365 days a year! If you have any questions, please contact us!