World
Coronavirus: Japan Hospitals Find Way to Beat Sanitiser Shortage
Strong alcoholic drinks can be used “when absolutely necessary” instead of hand sanitiser in Japanese hospitals, authorities said, as supplies run dry as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Spirits with an alcohol proof of between 70 and 83 per cent can be substituted to sterilise hands under new rules set out in a health ministry document obtained by AFP on Tuesday.
Some sake makers have begun producing stronger alcohol products to meet the demand for sanitiser.
Under Japanese regulations, liquids designed for disinfection should contain between 76.9 and 81.4 per cent alcohol content. Any more than this is less effective and should be diluted, officials say.
