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BMJ 2020; 368 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.m406 (Published 31 January 2020) Cite this as: BMJ 2020;368:m406

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Re: How to spread viral loads during hand washing - methods of hand drying

Dear Editor

The advice to all at times of epidemics always reinforces the need for hand washing. Hand drying is not mentioned. I have noticed at motor way service stations ladies' loos a frequent practice with regard to hand drying. Many ladies rinse their hands, then shake them to disseminate droplets of water into the air or onto an adjacent washbasin user. All hand washers have to then walk, with damp hands, across the area to the dryers, which are usually a number of steps away. The moisture must create a welcoming environment for viruses.

I wonder whether hand dryers in toilets should be sited close to the basins and hand shaking discouraged?

Competing interests: No competing interests

31 January 2020
Mary E Jones
Retired Community Paediatrician
None
Brompton, North Yorkshire