New long-lasting hand sanitizer developed

ST. CHARLES, Ill., March 9 (UPI) -- An Illinois company says it has developed a long-lasting, alcohol free hand sanitizer that protects against pathogens for a full day.

Prefenz Botanicals of St. Charles, Ill., said its silica-based "Botanicals Hand Sanitizer" has the longest effectiveness rating of any similar product available today, with one application remaining effective through 10 hand washings.

Officials said the new hand sanitizer kills staphylococcus, streptococcus, E. coli and other bacteria, along with viruses, fungi, algae and mold, by destroying the pathogens' cellular wall.