Coronavirus cases in the UK have surpassed 380 this week, leading to widespread panic about the spread of the disease.
Many worried Brits have taken to wearing gloves while out and about, in the hopes of protecting themselves from the virus.
However, experts have warned against this practice, and suggest that wearing gloves could actually increase your risk of catching the virus.
Dr Simran Deo at UK-based online doctor at Zava UK explained: “Conditions similar to coronavirus are spread through coughing and sneezing, which produce water or mucus droplets containing the virus.
“These droplets are projected into the air by coughing or sneezing and this causes a spread of the infection when they come into contact with others.
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“While gloves can protect your hands from coming into contact with these droplets, they will still remain on the surface of the gloves and may even last there for longer if they are not washed frequently, leading to an increased risk of catching the virus by touching your face or food with your gloves, as well as the risk of passing it on to others.”
Dr Deo advises that regularly washing your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitiser while you’re out and about is a much more effective tactic.
She added: “Gloves should not be treated as an alternative to good hygiene: the primary advice is to make sure you wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand rub for 20 to 30 seconds, especially when you’ve been on public transport , such as the train or bus.
“Use a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, and then dispose of it as soon as possible.”
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