How do I choose the right hand disinfectant for influenza A (H1N1)?

Influenza A (H1N1) is becoming a major concern for companies, local authorities, public services, schools, crèches, hospitals, etc.

H1N1 virus

This virus is called "enveloped", meaning that it has an outer lipid layer. This structure can be disrupted by detergents (e.g. soaps) or disinfectant solutions that are active on the influenza A virus.

Transmission mode

The virus appears to be transmitted in the same way as seasonal flu:

• by air (coughing, sneezing or spitting)
• close contact with someone who has influenza A (handshakes, hugs, etc.)
• transmission via objects (door handles, public transport, telephone, etc.). effective and regular hygiene is essential to limit the spread of the influenza A H1N1 virus.

Gel or disinfectant solution?

How can I check the effectiveness of a hand disinfectant gel or solution?
As the Biocide Directive 98/8/EC has not yet been implemented (implementation planned for 2013), hand sanitisers are not yet subject to the pre-marketing authorisation (PMA) system in France.

• However, certain information on the product label can help you make your choice:
• standard NF EN 14476, which enables the efficacy of the disinfectant product to be tested on naked viruses (which are more resistant than enveloped viruses)
• activity test according to the methodology of standard NF EN 14476 on the seasonal influenza A virus (H1N1 or H3N2) or on another representative (H5N1).

Finally, the use of hand gel or disinfectant solutions in no way replaces regular hand washing with soap (liquid soaps are preferable to solid soaps). It is also very important to wash your hands for at least 30 seconds, rinse thoroughly and then dry them properly. Moisture seems to encourage transmission of the virus.

IBL Specifik solutions for H1N1 disinfection

IBL Specifik markets peracetic acid-based hand disinfectant soaps and solutions that have obtained the NF EN 14476 standard. Contact us for more information.
Source : Afssaps (French Health Products Safety Agency)

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How to choose the right influenza A hand sanitiser.pdf