Sodium hypochlorite usage during COVID-19 – reassurance or a menace

Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is a highly essential chemical compound used regularly under numerous circumstances. It is a clear, yellowish liquid that is inflammable and a strong oxidant. It is used since many years and is recommended as the disinfectant of choice to avoid the spread of infection and cross infection between health care professionals and the patients. The current COVID pandemic has forced its use in abundance not only in health care units, but as well as in public places. It is like a double-edged sword that requires careful follow up of a set of protocols and precautions during its use to avoid its side effects and health problems among health care workers and the public.