Consequences of Intensified Handwash and Hand Disinfection Among Children During the COVID19 Pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic Denmark closed down, including schools, kindergartens and daycare. After reopening of the country 5 weeks later obligatory frequent handwash was a requirement from the government and routines has been implemented at all reopened schools, kindergartens and daycare. The study group wished to investigate whether this has had implications on symptoms of dry, red, itchy or sore hands and hand eczema. Also the study group wished to investigate if frequency or use of hand disinfection mattered. The investigation was performed within the first and second week after reopening by questionnaires distributed to parents electronically via schools, kindergartens and daycare electronic platforms. The questionnaire included 20 questions on demographics, frequency of hand wash and use of disinfectants, current and previous symptoms of eczema, atopic dermatitis and dispositions.