Disinfection: Alcohol vs. Chlorine Dioxide for Virus Protection

Concerns about disinfection?

Hello, doctor: Currently, it is the season for enterovirus and influenza outbreaks.
I have two children at home, and I previously used alcohol to disinfect their hands, but a friend told me that alcohol cannot eliminate enterovirus.
Recently, I found a product called chlorine dioxide being sold, which comes in both short-term and stable forms.
Is there a difference between these two types? Can this substance eliminate enterovirus and the new influenza virus? Thank you.

Shou Pi Hou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/08/30

Dr. Yang Zongyan reply Influenza

Regarding this issue, the Taipei City Health Bureau's website already provides answers.
I have included the URL and the content from the Health Bureau below: However, when using various disinfectants, it is essential to pay attention to safety practices, especially with chlorine-containing products.
Ensure good ventilation and thoroughly rinse with clean water after use for safety.
For children, proper handwashing is actually safer and more effective than other disinfectants.

Chlorine dioxide is a yellow-green gas composed of triatomic molecules, with an odor similar to chlorine.
In aqueous solution, chlorine dioxide hydrolyzes, dissolving as a gas (0.301 g/L) in the solution.
When chlorine dioxide is in an environment above 11°C, it will decompose from the aqueous solution, vaporizing into gas, and the solution will gradually change from yellow to colorless.
However, chlorine dioxide is a relatively unstable chemical; the active form of chlorine dioxide is less stable, making it inconvenient for transport and prone to losing its activity and effective components.
The stable form of chlorine dioxide can be activated just before use by adding an activator (phosphoric acid), ensuring the agent's activity and disinfection effectiveness.

Chlorine dioxide is characterized by high efficiency, broad-spectrum effectiveness, safety, and non-harmfulness.
Its disinfection capability is superior to traditional chlorine-based disinfectants (such as chlorine gas or bleach).
When used for water disinfection, chlorine dioxide does not react with organic substances to produce carcinogenic byproducts like chloroform, and it does not cause secondary environmental harm, making it a very mild disinfectant or oxidant.

However, chlorine dioxide also has its drawbacks, including a higher cost, less stability, and difficulty in procurement.
Within a reasonable price range, it is recommended to use stable chlorine dioxide disinfectants to ensure their activity and efficiency.
Generally, enteroviruses are quite sensitive to chlorine compounds; commercially available household bleach and chlorine dioxide can achieve good disinfection results.
It is advisable for the public to primarily purchase convenient and inexpensive household bleach containing chlorine, and to remember to wear rubber gloves for protection during dilution and disinfection.

Reply Date: 2009/08/30

More Info

When it comes to disinfecting against viruses, especially during the flu season and outbreaks of enteroviruses, understanding the efficacy of different disinfectants is crucial. In your case, you are comparing alcohol and chlorine dioxide as potential disinfectants for your children.

Alcohol as a Disinfectant
Alcohol, particularly isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) and ethanol, is commonly used for hand sanitization and surface disinfection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using hand sanitizers that contain at least 60% alcohol to effectively reduce the number of germs. However, while alcohol is effective against many types of bacteria and viruses, it is not as effective against certain viruses, including enteroviruses. Enteroviruses are known to be resistant to alcohol-based disinfectants, which means that while alcohol can reduce the presence of some pathogens, it may not be sufficient for complete disinfection against enteroviruses.

Chlorine Dioxide as a Disinfectant
Chlorine dioxide (ClO2) is a powerful disinfectant that has gained attention for its effectiveness against a wide range of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. It operates through oxidation, disrupting the cellular processes of microorganisms. Chlorine dioxide is available in two forms: stable and unstable.
- Stable Chlorine Dioxide: This form is often mixed with an activator before use, ensuring that it maintains its potency until it is ready to be applied. It is generally more reliable for disinfection purposes.

- Unstable Chlorine Dioxide: This form can lose its effectiveness quickly and may not be as reliable for consistent disinfection.

Research indicates that chlorine dioxide is effective against enteroviruses and can also be used to disinfect surfaces contaminated with influenza viruses. It is considered to be more effective than traditional chlorine bleach in certain applications, particularly because it does not produce harmful byproducts like trihalomethanes when reacting with organic matter.

Safety Considerations
While both alcohol and chlorine dioxide can be effective disinfectants, safety is paramount, especially when used around children. Alcohol can be flammable and should be used in well-ventilated areas. Chlorine dioxide, while effective, can also pose risks if not used properly. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding dilution and application, and to ensure that the area is well-ventilated during use.

Recommendations
1. Hand Hygiene: For your children, the best practice is to encourage regular hand washing with soap and water, especially after using the restroom, before eating, and after being in public places. Handwashing is highly effective in removing viruses and bacteria.

2. Surface Disinfection: For disinfecting surfaces, especially in areas where your children play or eat, chlorine dioxide can be a good option due to its effectiveness against enteroviruses and influenza. Ensure that you use a stable formulation and follow the instructions carefully.

3. Consult Health Guidelines: Always refer to local health guidelines or consult with healthcare professionals for the most effective and safe disinfecting practices, especially during flu season or outbreaks.

In conclusion, while alcohol is useful for many disinfecting purposes, it may not be sufficient against enteroviruses. Chlorine dioxide presents a more effective alternative for such viruses, provided it is used safely and correctly. Prioritize hand hygiene and surface cleaning to protect your children during this flu season.

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