With norovirus (the winter vomiting bug) doing its usual rounds in the UK, flu still circulating, and hantavirus making headlines after the recent cruise ship outbreak in South America, it’s a good time to think about everyday protection. The good news is that simple hand hygiene habits can make a real difference against these viruses.
Why Handwashing with Soap and Water Is Still the Best First Defence
Soap and water physically lift and rinse away dirt, oils and microbes. This works well against both “enveloped” viruses (like coronaviruses, flu and hantaviruses) and tougher non-enveloped viruses such as norovirus.
UKHSA guidance is clear: alcohol gels don’t work reliably against norovirus. That’s why health experts always recommend proper handwashing during stomach-bug outbreaks. When your hands are dirty or you’ve been in a higher-risk situation, 20 seconds of soap and warm water is hard to beat.
The Recent Hantavirus News
Hantavirus (specifically the Andes strain in this case) has been in the news because of person-to-person spread on a cruise ship — something that’s rare for most hantaviruses but possible with this South American variety. It’s a reminder that when we travel or come into contact with environments where rodents might have been present, good hygiene matters. While the risk to people in the UK remains very low, basic hand hygiene is a sensible precaution after travel or outdoor activities.
Where Alcohol Sanitisers Fall Short
Alcohol-based gels are quick and effective against many enveloped viruses because they break down the virus’s outer fatty layer. They work well against flu and coronaviruses.
But they have clear limitations for daily UK life:
- They’re poor against norovirus — the bug that causes so many problems here every winter.
- They can dry and irritate skin, especially in our colder, damper weather when you’re using them often.
Why Alcohol-Free Sanitisers with Benzalkonium Chloride and DDAC Are a Smart Everyday Choice
Serenity Hygiene sanitisers use Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC) and Didecyldimethylammonium Chloride (DDAC) — two quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) that disrupt the membranes of bacteria and viruses.
They offer:
- Strong action against enveloped viruses, including those like hantavirus, coronaviruses and flu
- Gentler on your hands — no drying or cracking
- A light residual protective effect that keeps working after application
- A more comfortable experience for regular use at home, in the car, at school, work or while travelling
They’re not meant to replace handwashing (especially during a vomiting bug outbreak), but they’re excellent for topping up protection when you’re out and about.
Serenity Hygiene vs Other Sanitisers – Side-by-Side
| Aspect | Serenity (BAC + DDAC Alcohol-Free) | Other Alcohol-Free Sanitisers | Alcohol-Based Sanitisers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Enveloped viruses (e.g. Coronaviruses, Flu, Hantaviruses) | Highly effective | Variable, depends on brand | Highly effective |
| Non-enveloped viruses (e.g. Norovirus) | Good performance in tested formulations | Often limited; a few (e.g. some HOCl) better | Poor – generally ineffective |
| Bacteria (including common bugs) | Broad, reliable action | Varies widely | Good against many, weak on spores |
| Skin feel & residual protection | Gentle, leaves protective layer | Usually gentle but varies | Can dry and irritate; no residual effect |
| Best for | Daily home, school, office & travel use | Targeted or specific needs | Quick use when hands are clean & dry |
Serenity stands out for its balanced formula using proven ingredients in a skin-friendly way that British families can use comfortably every day.
Simple Advice for Everyday Protection
- At home or when hands are dirty: Soap and water first.
- On the go or after travel: Keep Serenity handy in your bag or car.
- During outbreaks: Stick with thorough handwashing — it’s still the most reliable step.
At Serenity Hygiene we believe effective protection shouldn’t mean dry, cracked hands. Our alcohol-free sanitisers are made right here in the UK and are trusted in homes, schools and care settings across the country.
If you want a gentler, practical way to protect your family day-to-day, give Serenity a try. You’ll find us at serenityhygiene.com or in selected UK retailers.
Stay well and keep those hands clean — the sensible way.
From the team at Serenity Hygiene
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