What did Anders Tegnell actually say?

Under the coronavirus pandemic, Anders Tegnell, Sweden's then state epidemiologist, emphasized the importance of hand hygiene as a simple and effective way to reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Here are some of his positions on soap and water (Soap is a type of detergent):


1. Soap and water are fundamental:

Tegnell highlighted that regular hand washing with soap and water is sufficient to remove viruses from the hands. He explained that the coronavirus is an enveloped virus, which means that its protective fatty membrane can be destroyed by soap.


2. Mechanical cleaning is effective:

He emphasized that it is not only the soap that is important, but also the washing process itself. By rubbing your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds, dirt and microorganisms are loosened, which are then rinsed away with water.


3. Soap and water vs. hand sanitizer:

Tegnell mentioned that hand sanitizer is a good complement when soap and water are not available, but stressed that regular hand washing works just as well if not better, especially if the hands are dirty. Hand sanitizer is effective in killing bacteria and viruses but has limited effect on dirt.


4. Practical and sustainable solution:

By prioritizing soap and water, he demonstrated an easily accessible and environmentally friendly method to reduce the spread of infection, without the need for excessive use of antibacterial products.


In summary, Anders Tegnell's message was that good hand hygiene with soap and water is an important measure to slow the spread of infection, and it is a method that is both simple and effective in everyday life.


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