KYW Medical Report: The pros and cons of hand sanitizer

PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer has become a way of life for many of us.

It’s relatively easy to get ahold of these days, but it was not that long ago that supermarket shelves were empty and people tried to grab all that they could.

It’s great for when you can’t wash your hands with soap and water, and particularly useful to have in the car or at work. But there are dangers worth considering.

Don’t keep bottles where children and pets can get to them. Adults should help children under 6 apply it. A quick lick after putting it on shouldn’t cause any harm, but drinking even a small amount can cause problems.

The other issue is less serious but can be annoying: Many people complain of redness and itching under their rings. Keeping the area dry can be helpful, or taking a temporary break from rings altogether.

KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.

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