Health Dept cautions against spraying disinfectants
Bengaluru, Sept 27: The Health and Family Welfare Department has asked all the states not to practice spraying of individuals with disinfectants.
Ministry Of Health & Family Welfare had issued an advisory against spraying of disinfectant on people for COVID-19 management on 18th April, 2020.
“Disinfectants are chemicals that destroy disease causing pathogens or other harmful microorganisms. It refers to substances applied on inanimate objects owing to their strong chemical properties. Hence spraying of individuals or groups with disinfectant using any modality is not recommended under any circumstances,” the Department stated in office memorandum.
“Disinfectants can be physically and psychologically harmful. It may to irritation of eyes, skin and breathing difficulty and may potentially cause gastrointestinal effects such as nausea and vomiting,” he said.
The Supreme Court which took cognizance of this fact has directed Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India to issue relevant directions.
“In view of the above, it is reiterated that spraying of individuals with disinfectants using various modalities is not recommended and hence all States/Union Territories are directed to ensure that such practices are not implemented” it added.
