Waterless Hand Sanitizer for Diarrhea Prevention in a Humanitarian Emergency

In the early days of a humanitarian emergency or arrival into a refugee settlement, water supplies can be scarce. An option such as alcohol-based sanitizer, which does not require water, could facilitate keeping hands clean and help prevent disease in particularly crowded conditions. 

Title: Waterless Hand Sanitizer for Diarrhea Prevention in a Humanitarian Emergency

Principal Investigator: Pavani Kalluri Ram, MD

Funding Agency: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Period: 09/30/12 - 09/29/16

Abstract: Investigators will evaluate the acceptability and use of waterless hand sanitizer in humanitarian emergency settings. In the early days of a humanitarian emergency or arrival into a refugee settlement, water supplies can be scarce, making hand washing difficult.  An option such as alcohol-based sanitizer, which does not require water, could facilitate keeping hands clean and help prevent disease in particularly crowded conditions.