An Ibadan-based pharmacist has revealed that not all hand sanitizers work against the coronavirus.
Mr. Ayobambo Fajuyitan disclosed that hand sanitizers with low alcohol content cannot stop COVID-19.
He said that for hand sanitizers to be effective against the virus, they must have a minimum of 40% alcohol content.
“When at home, it is preferred you use hand washing method. It’s better to ways the hand in a running tap for 20 seconds.”
Mr. Fajuyitan also warned against ingesting hand sanitizer, saying:
“Hand sanitizers contain majorly glycerine and ethanol. Hand sanitizers contain 62% ethyl alcohol and that’s the equivalent of 4 shots of vodka.
At that concentration, even a small dose can be dangerous.”
The ingestion could lead to dizziness, slurred speech, headaches and even brain damage or death in severe cases.
Speaking further, the pharmacist said:
“Also, it can lead to ocular irritation, vomiting, conjunctivitis, cough and abdominal pain.
Rare effects include coma, seizure, hypoglycemia, metabolic acidosis, and respiratory depression may occur.
Majority of the hand sanitizers produced in Nigeria don’t even have up to 62% ethyl alcohol.”
