How to safely wash hands after touching a sick kitten, no bleach?

Question

I have 3 kitten..which is 3-4 weeks old..one of them have virus that infected through her mom. I already seperated them and not mixed them. My vet doc ask me to wash my hand with only bleach and wait for couple minute. It make my skin dry. Is there another way to sanitize my hand after touch virus kitten other than bleach? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Male | neutered | 1 month and 2 days old | 8.818 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

You do not need to wash your hands with bleach. This is really not necessary. While it is true that regular soap and water does not actually kill microorganisms (they create a slippery surface that allows the organisms to "slide off"), antibacterial soaps are typically considered to be "overkill" for most purposes. The exception may be in a hospital where special situations are present (e.g., before invasive procedures, when caring for severely immuno-compromised patients, critical care areas, intensive care nurseries, etc.). Antibacterial agents should be chosen carefully based on their active ingredients and characteristics, and when persistent antimicrobial activity on the hands is desired. So, plain soap and water is fine as long as you follow these guidelines. 1. Remove any rings or other jewelry. 2. Use warm water and wet your hands thoroughly. 3. Use soap (1-3 mL) and lather very well. 4. Scrub your hands, between your fingers, wrists, and forearms with soap for a minimum of 15 seconds. 5. Scrub under your nails. 6. Rinse thoroughly. 7. Dry your hands with a single use towel or air dryer. Other tips include: 1. Cover cuts with bandages and wear gloves for added protection (cuts are very vulnerable to infections). 2. Artificial nails and chipped nail polish have been associated with an increase in the number of bacteria on the fingernails. Be sure to clean the nails properly. 3. Liquid soap is best - not bar soaps. Hope this helps. Best wishes!

How to safely wash hands after touching a sick kitten, no bleach?

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