Gloves aren’t a substitute for handwashing, infection control experts say
Arlington, VA — Think you’re safer wearing gloves during the COVID-19 pandemic? The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology wants you to know that protective vinyl, latex or nitrile gloves could become “more contaminated than bare hands” and “may actually be spreading germs in the community.”
In a recently published resource, APIC cautions that gloves may offer a false sense of security, and “are not a substitute for handwashing” nor a complete barrier to preventing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 – the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
APIC recommends washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer before and after wearing gloves. And whether you wear gloves or not, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to limit possible exposure to germs.
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