What concentration of alcohol should be used in an alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR)?
In health care settings, it is preferable that a minimum concentration of 70% alcohol be chosen as this level kills norovirus. Norovirus and other non-enveloped viruses (e.g. rotavirus, enterovirus) cause acute gastroenteritis in humans and are a frequent cause of outbreaks in health care facilities. As norovirus is a concern in all health care settings, this should be considered when choosing an Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) product. In non-health care settings, a concentration of 60-90% is acceptable. ABHR products being considered for purchase must have a Drug Identification Number (DIN) or Natural Product Number (NPN) from Health Canada.
