Does 'Soap Free' Handwash Kill Germs?

As the Ebola outbreak continues to ravage parts of Africa, hand hygiene has become a critical measure in preventing the spread of the deadly virus. But with the rise of 'soap free' handwashes on the market, a question arises: do these products actually kill germs and protect against Ebola?

The short answer is no. While 'soap free' handwashes may claim to have antimicrobial properties, they are not as effective at removing germs and bacteria as traditional soap and water.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), soap and water are the most effective method for hand hygiene. The CDC recommends washing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, paying special attention to areas between the fingers and under the nails where germs and bacteria can hide.

On the other hand, 'soap free' handwashes may only provide a minimal level of protection against germs. These products often contain alcohol, which can kill some bacteria and viruses on contact. However, alcohol-based handwashes are not as effective at removing dirt and other contaminants that can harbor germs, making them less effective at preventing the spread of diseases like Ebola.

Furthermore, the CDC warns against relying solely on alcohol-based handwashes, as some germs and bacteria can develop resistance to alcohol over time. This means that these products may not be effective at protecting against new strains of viruses and bacteria, such as the Ebola virus.

In conclusion, 'soap free' handwashes may provide some level of protection against germs, but they are not as effective as traditional soap and water. To protect against the spread of Ebola and other diseases, it is important to wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. For more information on the Ebola outbreak and how to prevent its spread, visit ebola-cases.com and blog.ebola-cases.com and follow us on Twitter @ebola_cases.