Hypochlorite solution is recommended for disinfection of surfaces and instruments. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

Minutes after the Punjab government issued directions that spray tunnels do not kill virus and are rather harmful for mucous membranes, the Chandigarh Administration which had set up a sanitisation tunnel in Sector 26 Grain Market sought PGI doctor’s opinion on the same. The sanitisation tunnel sprays sodium hypochlorite solution over people entering the grain market.

Speaking to The INDIAN express, Commissioner KK Yadav said, “The tunnel was set up on the suggestion of PGI, which also designed the sanitisation tunnel. However, after reports came that spray of disinfectant is not useful, we have sought official medical opinion from PGI regarding this. We have also asked the hospital administration about alternate measures to be undertaken since the grain market is a high risk zone, which has a footfall of about 4,000 to 5,000 people.”

Yadav said that PGI Director will consult with the doctors at GMSH Sector 16 and GMCH Sector 32 about the same. However, as of now the sanitisation tunnel is being used.

A communication from Director Health and Family Welfare, Punjab government, to its officials said that “advisory issued by WHO stated that spraying disinfectants like alcohol and chlorine all over the body does not kill the virus, it is rather harmful for clothes and mucous membrane. Hypochlorite solution is recommended for disinfection of surfaces and instruments. Disinfectant tunnels will create a false sense of security and people may be diverted from hand wash. Under these circumstances it is recommended that disinfectant tunnels should not be installed and used.”