Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2020 | SARS-CoV-2 | Short report
Potential methanol toxicity and the importance of using a standardised alcohol-based hand rub formulation in the era of COVID-19
Published in: Antimicrobial Resistance & Infection Control | Issue 1/2020
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Objectives
Hand sanitisers are urgently needed in the time of COVID-19, and as a result of shortages, some people have resorted to making their own formulations, including the repurposing of distilleries. We wish to highlight the importance of those producing hand sanitisers to avoid methylated spirits containing methanol and to follow WHO recommended formulations.
Methods
We explore and discuss reports of methanol toxicity through ingestion and transdermal absorption. We discuss the WHO formulations and explain the rationale behind the chosen ingredients.
Short conclusion
We advise those producing hand sanitisers to follow WHO recommended formulations, and advise those producing hand sanitisers using methylated spirits, to avoid formulations which contain methanol.