Is the Use of Antibacterial Soap Effective to Repel Corona Virus?

In the midst of widespread news about the Corona virus, many people feel anxious and try to protect themselves as well as possible from this virus. One of them by washing hands or bathing with antibacterial soap. Then, is it true that this type of soap can ward off COVID-19 disease?

Antibacterial soap is a type of soap that is generally used in clinics or hospitals because it contains triclosan effective against bacteria, fungi, or viruses.

However, there are also antibacterial soaps sold in the market for daily use. The difference is content triclosan in hospital soap is much higher, even up to 10 times, compared to antibacterial soap for the public.

The Effectiveness of Antibacterial Soap vs Ordinary Soap in Preventing Corona Virus

Antibacterial soaps for bathing or washing hands that are sold in the market usually contain triclosan (0.1–0.45%) or triclocarbon. This soap is believed to be more effective at repelling bacteria and viruses that stick to the skin than ordinary soap.

Even though the rate triclosanis much lower than the antibacterial soaps commonly used in hospitals, over-the-counter antibacterial soaps are still effective at killing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. How does it compare to regular soap? Turns out, antibacterial soap and regular soap are just as effective at removing bacteria and viruses from hands. In fact, regular soap is less likely to cause side effects on the skin than antibacterial soap.

Content triclosan Antibacterial soaps tend to make the skin on hands dry and prone to irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. Plus, experts suspect that long-term use of antibacterial soap can cause bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics.

So, you don't need to come in droves to buy antibacterial soap. Ordinary soap will suffice. how come, especially if you apply the correct way of washing your hands.

In addition, also take other preventive steps. Wear a mask when you are sick and maintain your immune system by eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.

If you experience symptoms that point to a Corona virus infection, immediately consult a doctor. You can also detect whether you are at risk of being infected with the Corona virus by clicking the image below. Especially if you have recently traveled to countries affected by the Corona virus, such as China, South Korea, and Italy.

If you have further questions regarding Corona virus infection, both in terms of symptoms and prevention, don't hesitate to contact us chat doctor directly in the Alodokter application. You can also make a consultation appointment with a doctor at the hospital through this application.