Thank you to those who have written to “dear efap” for input on your dilemmas. As you are aware, we read every inquiry that comes in but we are only able to print a small selection of responses.  Our “pithy” answers are modeled after the lighter hearted Dear Abby style and are grounded in common sense.  If your issues require a more personalized level of support please call EFAP (1-800-505-4929) and we can confidentially book you a counselling appointment with a senior level therapist.

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We welcome all inquiries – please submit these to dear.efap@efap.ca. All printed responses use the anonymous descriptor that you sign your inquiry with and do not reveal any identifying information.  Our goal is to support you through insight and common sense.

Below is our response to the next selection – enjoy!

It’s the New Year and everyone seems sick around me – they’re all hacking away and blowing their noses.  I don’t want to get sick; I want a happy, healthy New Year. Will those antibacterial soaps help?

• Wanting a Happier and Healthier New Year

Dear Wanting a Happier and Healthier New Year,

Well, wanting to be healthy sounds very wise, my friend, but I’m not an expert in this area so I did a little research on the internet on your behalf. I found some particularly interesting information on the website that lists environmental issues and what we can all do for a happier and healthier New Year*.  The website suggests ditching the antibacterials and references a recent ruling by the FDA that ruled that “the risks of consumer antiseptic washes outweigh the benefits of the ‘active ingredient’ listed on the label.” According to the article, the ingredient triclosan interferes with our bodies’ hormone systems, may lead to bacterial resistance to antibiotics, and pollutes local waterways.  Even more so, there is no evidence to suggest that triclosan is more effective in reducing illness. The article recommends staying away from any soaps, washes, dental products, deodorant and household cleaners that have triclosan listed as an ingredient in them. They also offer some very helpful tips on what alternatives can be used (http://www.ecocenter.org/home-cleaning-recipes), with white vinegar and peroxide high on the list.  Yikes! Who knew? Not me!

So, to answer your question, will antibacterial soaps help keep you from getting sick? I would suggest that if they contain triclosan, they likely will not help.  So, please check to see whether the soaps that you have contain this active ingredient, and if they do, it sounds like it may be best to stay away from them altogether.  Thanks for asking about this, as I’m sure many of my readers did not know this information, and have a healthy, safe and Happy New Year!

*http://www.ecocenter.org/new-year%E2%80%99s-resolutions-healthy-people-and-healthy-planet

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The advice offered in this column is meant to be used as general guidance based on the facts provided. The opinions or views expressed should not be relied on as treatment or counselling services. If you are a VCH staff member and find yourself in need of counselling or support, please contact EFAP toll free at 1-800-505-4929 or 604-872-4929, your family doctor, or another appropriately trained and qualified specialist.