Plain Soap and Water Your Best Defense

Cold and flu season is fast approaching and many are already stocking their homes to be ready for germ-carrying grand kids and other visitors. Seniors, especially those with chronic health issues, are often most susceptible to complications from these common illnesses so it’s wise to be prepared.

However, the notion that antibacterial soap will better protect against infection has been proven invalid by the United States Food And Drug Administration. The FDA has issued a final ruling that over-the-counter consumer antiseptic wash products containing triclosan and triclocarban will no longer be marketed.

The chemicals added to anti-bacterial soap, usually triclosan or triclocarban, were tested against plain soap and water and proved to offer no more protection. Washing hands with simple soap and water is effective at reducing the spread of germ without exposing people to unnecessary chemicals that may alter hormones. Studies have found that triclosan may also contribute to creating bacteria resistant to antibiotics.

The FDA ruling does not apply to antibacterial soaps used in healthcare settings such as nursing homes or hospitals and it also does not apply to hand sanitizers or hand wipes. For more information and for a Center for Disease Control link to proper hand washing practices, visit http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm378393.htm .