Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) is warning against the use of alcohol spray guns, as their tiny droplets are ineffective at disinfecting surfaces and such spraying could cause any pathogens present to spread more widely.

Recommending the use of alcohol gel to wipe surfaces, instead of spray guns, Deputy Secretary-General of TFDA Dr. Supatra Boonserm, revealed that alcohol spray guns are currently in high demand, due to the continuing spread of COVID-19.

She also explained that, if the alcohol droplets get into someone’s eyes or nose, they can lead to eye irritation, dizziness, nausea and breathing issues and they are very dangerous for young children.

The UV rays from the gun can also lead to skin cancer, if it is used directly on exposed areas of the body. Alcohol spray guns are not sufficient to kill germs and pose a threat to people’s health, she added.

Dr. Supatra suggested that people use disinfectants which have been approved by the TFDA to clean or wipe down surfaces instead.