Non-profit Organization Soin Esthetic Association

To prevent the spread of new influenza in beauty salons, Soin calls upon its member salons to read carefully and implement the following precautionary measures.

[To present the spread of new influenza]
* Make sure there is enough stockpile of mask and antiseptics, and where necessary purchase in advance.
* As the new influenza continues to spread, there may be difficulties in purchasing antiseptic and hygiene supplies (especially masks).
* The peak of new influenza infections is expected to be around October this year.

[Precautionary measures to be taken by salon operators]
Tools
* Disinfect tools with ethanol or chlorine bleach. Chlorhexidine solution is not as effective in killing influenza virus, while cationic soap has no effect at all.
* The most effective way of using ethanol and chlorine bleach is by immersing objects into diluted solution for 10 minutes.
* Where immersion is not possible (e.g. large equipments), wipe the surface with a piece of cloth soaked with disinfectant. To remove residual disinfectant (especially chlorine bleach), wait for 10 minutes before wiping with a wet cloth.
- Chlorine bleach can be used on stainless steel surface, but not iron surface as it will lose its shine.
* Boiling can also kill virus. Put objects in boiling water for 2 minutes or longer.
* Disinfecting by UV radiation requires 20 minutes or longer. When using a single-source UV lamp, remember to apply the radiation on both surfaces, even in the case of glass.
- The insides of a tube cannot be disinfected by UV lamp.

Beds / machinery
* The most reliable method of disinfection is by wiping with disinfectant. To remove residual disinfectant (especially chlorine bleach), wait for 10 minutes before wiping with a wet cloth.
* Using disinfecting spray may pose a risk as disinfection is not foolproof and viruses may be dislodged by airflow. Avoid using spray where possible.

Furnitures / sheets / linen products
* Wash with washing machine and regular detergents. If washing is not possible, spread out and hang for 8 hours or longer.
- Influenza virus adhering on surfaces is potent for 2 to 8 hours according to information available at CDC. After 8 hours there will not be a risk of infection from surface.
* Linen products that have come in contact with bodily fluids should be rinsed and immersed in chlorine bleach solution for 30 minutes or longer before washing.
* Please beware of bleaching effects on linen products.

[Precautionary measures to be taken by staff]
Wash hands and gaggle
* While regular soap can be used, antiseptic handwash is more desirable.
* Mouthwash is more effective than water.

Wear masks in crowded space
* Avoid crowded spaces where contact with strangers is frequent.

Cover mouth when coughing and sneezing
* Maintain good manners in beauty salons and crowded spaces.

Avoid touching eyes, ears and mouth
* Contact with mucus can cause viral infection. After coming in contact with various surfaces with hands, touching eyes, ears, and mouth can increase the risk of infection.

Workplace and household
* Ventilate regularly and keep at a constant temperature. A humidity of 50% is desirable.

[In case of suspected infection]
* If you have flu symptoms such as fever (over 38 degrees), bodily pain, nausea, diarrhea, vomit, or cough, please seek medical attention immediately.
* Going to work when you are sick increases the risk of infection
* When infected, symptoms will appear within 1 to 3 days. During this latent period, cross-infection is possible. Virus may still survive in body within two days after symptoms disappear. Do not resume contact with others immediately even when you think you have recovered; consult a doctor.
* Seasonal flu will peak in winter. Please make precautions accordingly as well.

* Please pay attention to the latest developments about new influenza on TV or in newspaper.