Ministry: Overzealous Disinfectant Spraying Could Be Harmful

The widespread use of disinfectant sprays in public places as part of the response to coronavirus may actually be harmful to health, Israel’s Environmental Protection Ministry said on Tuesday.

“The Ministry warns that excessive use of disinfectant materials in the public sphere can cause unnecessary risk to people and environmental pollution and even raise concern about pollution of water sources,” it said in a statement.

Officials also noted that there exists no proof that disinfecting public spaces such as streets and parks can help to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

The ministry noted that epidemiologists have urged meticulous handwashing and social distancing to contain the virus, and that the Health Ministry was not recommending the spraying of disinfectants.