Is Germ-X® safe to use around children?

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers like Germ-X are safe when used correctly and when keeping the following in mind:

• They are for external use only and are not for internal consumption.
• They are not recommended for use with infants.
• They should be used only with adult supervision. Children should be carefully supervised by an adult when using this product.

What are the benefits of using Germ-X?

Germ-X hand sanitizers offer consumers many benefits. They kill 99.99% of many common, harmful germs and bacteria in as little as 15 seconds and they can help reduce the spread of germs that can cause disease and illnesses. They are portable, convenient and easy to use.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are recommended by many medical authorities including the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for use when soap & water are not available.

Are hand sanitizers like Germ-X safe to use in the classroom ?

When used as directed and under proper supervision of an adult, Germ-X is safe for use in school classrooms and has value where soap and water may not be readily available.

Dr. Cyd Williams, a leading pediatrician, says, “Regarding any stories you may have heard, there should not be any adverse effect with normal application on the skin, when rubbed into your hands.

“The product dries quickly – in approximately 15 seconds. With proper use in normal amounts, there should be no adverse effect even if a child licked his or her hands.

“The most important thing to remember is that parents, teachers and other caregivers must always read and pay careful attention to product labels to protect their children and keep them safe.”

What should you do if you suspect a child has ingested hand sanitizer

At Germ-X, we are committed to the safety of our products and the health of your family. As a responsible manufacturer, we work hard to label our products so they may be used safely.

To help deter ingestion, Germ-X adds a bittering agent to all of our hand sanitizing products.

If you suspect your child has ingested hand sanitizer or any other household product, you should seek professional medical assistance immediately. Keep emergency numbers on hand for:

• Your physician or pediatrician
• Your local poison control center
• The National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222  (or visit their website at  www.aapcc.org )
• 911

For more information on our complete line of antimicrobial products designed For the Health of Your Family,  see the "Products" section on our website or call 1-866-MYGERMX (694-3769).

Editor's Notes: Germ-X® is produced by Vi-Jon, a St. Louis-based personal care products manufacturer, distributing a full range of products to the nation’s largest mass-market retailers, food stores and distributors and drug store chains.