Exceptional measures

As the struggle to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus continues in Japan, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has decided to relax some of its regulations concerning what can be lawfully used as a sanitizer.

According to NHK, in response to urgent requests from certain medical institutions and facilities for the elderly where alcoholic sanitizer supplies are almost depleted or lacking, the health ministry has decided to exceptionally allow alcoholic beverages with high alcohol concentrations to be used as a substitute disinfectant.

Products made by alcoholic beverage makers can be used only when there are no alternatives.

70% to 83% alcohol concentration

Moreover, beverages suitable for use as sanitizer against the novel coronavirus must have an alcohol concentration of at least 70% and no higher than 83%. Alcohol with concentrations higher than that should be diluted to ensure they have the necessary effect.

Brewers have already started manufacturing products that are specifically intended to be used as sanitizers.

Strong Zero won't cut it

If you're eyeing that 9% Strong Zero in the konbini and thinking it could work as a disinfectant, you're going to need something a bit stronger than that. Only certain types of vodka, rum and other strong spirits have what it takes.

So, if you're living in Japan and have bottles of Spyritus or Everclear lying around, maybe now's a good time to donate them to your local hospital or assisted living facility. Be sure to call in advance and see if they need it first.