Prevent illness, wash your hands!

Tanya Musgrave BSc, BTech (Env. Health), CPHI(C)

Think of how many things you touch every day with your hands. These things might seem clean, but in reality we know that bacteria and viruses are present. Your hands play a major role in the spread of germs that cause illness. Washing your hands is the single most important way to prevent illness.

There are two methods of killing or removing germs on your hands, using an alcohol-based hand rub or washing your hands with soap and running water. Alcohol-based hand rub (ABHR) is the preferred method of handwashing when hands are not visibly soiled. It takes less time and is more effective.

Hand washing with soap and running water is the preferred method when hands are visibly soiled. The mechanical action of washing, rinsing and drying removes most transient bacteria.

Unwashed hands carry bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses such as colds and influenza to spread. Such infections are a main contributor to missed days from work, daycare and school. They can also lead to complications which may result in hospitalization or even death. Everybody can help in preventing the spread of illness. In addition to washing your hands, cough and sneeze into a tissue or your sleeve, stay home if you are sick, keep commonly touched surfaces clean and get immunized.

Did you know?

Your hands play a major role in the spread of germs that can cause illness. Handwashing is the best way to prevent illness; it removes germs before they can spread.