Real-Time Measurement of Alcohol Vapours Released from Alcohol-based Hand Disinfectants and User Habits Study of Hong Kong Residents in the Pandemic of COVID-19

Abstract

Based on the information suggested by World Health Organization (WHO) and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government, wearing a mask and sterilizing hands with alcohol-based hand disinfectants are effective ways to maintain good personal hygiene to prevent viral infections. This study focused on the real-time concentrations of alcohol vapor in the air associated with five alcohol-based hand disinfectants. The results indicated that the alcohol concentrations increased dramatically (max. ~46,000 ppb/g sample) in the hand-rubbing process. Hong Kong residents' survey on habits of using such disinfectants showed that 65% of people use them daily and 34% of people use them ≥ 5 times per day, indicating a high frequency of usage. About 79% of respondents claimed to have skin problems, and 18% got eyes discomfort when using these disinfectants. Despite the potential health risks of using alcohol disinfectants remaining unclear, such a large amount and frequent usage should be aware of potential health problems in the long term.