ABSTRACT
COVID-19 has affected all aspects of human life so far. From the outset of the pandemic, preventing the spread of COVID-19 through the observance of health protocols, especially the use of sanitizers and disinfectants was given more attention. Despite the effectiveness of disinfection chemicals in controlling and preventing COVID-19, there are critical concerns about their adverse effects on human health. This study aims to assess the health effects of sanitizers and disinfectants on a global scale. A total of 91056 participants from 154 countries participated in this cross-sectional study through an electronic questionnaire. Results implied that detergents (67%), alcohol-based materials (56%), and chlorinated compounds (32%) were the most commonly used types of sanitizers and disinfectants. Most frequently reported health issues include skin complications 48.8% and respiratory complications 29.8%. The Chi-square test showed a significant association between chlorinated compounds with all possible health complications under investigation (p-value < 0.001). Examination of risk factors based on multivariate regression analysis showed that alcohols-based materials were associated with skin complications (OR, 1.98; 95%CI, 1.87–2.09), per-chlorine was associated with eye complications (OR, 1.83; 95%CI, 1.74–1.93), and highly likely with itching and throat irritation (OR, 2.00; 95%CI, 1.90–2.11). Furthermore, formaldehyde was associated with a higher prevalence of neurological complications (OR, 2.17; 95%CI, 1.92–2.44). The findings of the current study suggest that health authorities need to implement more awareness programs about the side effects of using sanitizers and disinfectants during viral epidemics.
Subject(s)
COVID-19 , Pruritus , Skin Diseases, Vascular , Central Nervous System DiseasesABSTRACT
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has already overwhelmed the entire world. Intimidating other waves, it has seriously affected vulnerable populations, such as the old people. This brief literature review aimed to investigate the available data associated with age-related malnutrition, its effects on the immune system, and the risk of viral exposure, including COVID-19. We emphasized the interrelationship of viral infections and the immune system in old-age people. The role of adequate nutrition was studied, which might boost the immune system and prevent emergent COVID-19 virus exposure. We have narrated the available literature related to the nutritional management of COVID-19 infection to reduce adverse disease outcomes and mortality risk in the older population. This literature review found the coexistence of malnutrition, immune dysfunction, and high infection exposure increases the risk of mortalities in older people with COVID-19. Immediate nutritional interventions and adequate nutritional management can help tackle the adverse health consequences and prevent mortalities. Hence, the pandemic requires a comprehensive approach to understand all the related aspects and needs further in-depth investigations related to micronutrient supplements and to enhance immunity in COVID-19 infected old-age patients.