Are antibacterial soap effective against viruses?

Soap, in general, is effective against viruses. However, there is no solid proof to indicate that anti-bacterial soap is any better when it comes to killing germs. So, if you want something effective in killing viruses, you can do so with regular soap.

Antibacterial soaps contain some types of chemicals not found on regular soap. These chemicals are supposed to be what makes the soap efficient in preventing infection. One such ingredient is the triclosan, an antibacterial and antifungal agent that is also present in toothpaste.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is no definite data that could prove that triclosan and other chemicals are effective in protecting people from diseases and infections. Continually advertising anti-bacterial products may just give people a false sense of security.

The FDA added that people are better off washing their hands with regular soap and water to protect themselves from viruses. Since there is no vaccine or cure against COVID-19, which has become a pandemic, the best protection right now is to regularly clean your hands with soap and water. This practice should also be complemented with self-quarantining if at all possible. If you really need to go out, then you should at least practice social distancing.