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Why Experts Recommend Using Hand Sanitizer At The Pharmacy
HuffPost • • health
Key Points:
- Pharmacies can be hotspots for germs as many visitors are sick or have been exposed to illness, leading to contaminated surfaces like touchscreens and door handles.
- Shared surfaces such as sign-in screens, payment terminals, and blood pressure monitor touchpads are common points where viruses and bacteria can transfer between individuals.
- Pathogens found on these surfaces may include fecal bacteria, common cold viruses, COVID-19, and rhinovirus, which can survive on surfaces for extended periods.
- Handwashing is the best defense after touching pharmacy surfaces, but using hand sanitizer immediately after contact is a crucial secondary measure, especially if washing facilities aren't available.
- Proper use of hand sanitizer—applying a quarter-size amount and rubbing for 15 seconds—significantly reduces the risk of infection in public spaces like pharmacies.
