Is it true that alcohol-based handrubs are not effective against some important pathogens, for example, Clostridium difficile and norovirus?

Clostridium difficile: no agent used in hand hygiene preparations, including alcohol-based handrubs, is effective against the spores of Clostridium difficile. During outbreaks of C. Difficile-related infections it is preferable to wash hands with soap and water following glove removal after caring for patients with diarrhoea.

Alcohol-based handrubs can then be used after handwashing in these instances. Norovirus: the efficacy of alcohol-based handrubs against noroviruses varies with type and concentration of alcohol in the formulation, with a minimum 60% (v/v) concentration of ethanol required for good activity. WHO experts recommend the use of alcohol-based handrubs during outbreaks of noroviral gastroenteritis.

Whether alcohol is effective against microbes such as Clostridium difficile and norovirus can divert attention from a much overlooked issue. Alcohol-based handrubs play a critical role in mass behaviour change and health improvement. Discouraging their widespread use in ... more.

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