HKPR District Health Unit Says It’s “Vital” Used Gloves Be Disposed of Properly

Pete Fisher
5 years ago
• Categories: Editor Choice, Local

The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit said regular washing with soap and water and not touching your face offers more protection than gloves.

Chandra Tremblay who is Manager, Corporate; Communications and IT Services for the HKPR District Health Unit commented on the gloves after Today’s Northumberland spotted at least 15 pairs of discarded gloves in the Walmart parking lot on Tuesday, March 25, 2020.

Move discarded gloves were found at David’s No Frills.

“Regular handwashing with soap/water and not touching your face offers more protection than wearing gloves when out in public,” said Tremblay.

“Even if you wear gloves, you can still pick up COVID-19 if you touch your face with the dirty gloves, and this could then spread the contamination and infect you.”

Tremblay said that people do not need to wear gloves unless they are providing direct care to someone infected with COVID-19.

“If they choose to wear gloves, it’s important to remove and dispose of them safely to reduce the risk of illness. When removing the gloves, it’s essential to avoid contamination of your hands and arms and clothing (etc.).”

Tremblay said, “it’s vital that used gloves be put into the garbage.”

“They should not be thrown on the ground or put in a pocket or purse for later disposal. If you cannot access a garbage, carry a plastic bag that you can use to store the dirty gloves inside until they can be properly thrown out. Gloves should NEVER be re-used.”