Body Health

One of the most effective methods to prevent the spread of pathogenic bacteria and other germs is a simple act that most of us do every day: Wash hands. What we do is not to perform this act properly or often enough. The schools are great breeding grounds for cold and flu viruses, and studies have shown that children wash their hands frequently tend to be sick less often. Practice good hand washing habits can be an effective additional line of defense around and around you.

“The virus colds, flu and stomach, for example, on the fingertips to live for hours, and can survive on the surfaces of objects for days,” says Dr. Philip Tierno Jr., M ., author of “The Secret Life of Germs” (Pocket Books in November 2001). “Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics, but mostly just need to viral infections run their course.”

So the best way to avoid these diseases that prevent them ever. Dr. Tierno recommends hand washing after treatment:

* Hand washing effectively requires both water and soap. Simply rinse hands with water alone is almost useless
* Wet your hands thoroughly and lather them with soap
* Rub the lather on the hands and fingers for at least 20 to 30 seconds
* Remember that you do not wash under your fingernails
* Rinse and repeat

As for the rate, you must wash your hands several times a day before eating, after using a bath and after coughing or sneezing on them. After shaking hands with someone, you should not touch your face or mouth until an opportunity to wash. It makes sense to wash in from outside.

In public restrooms, you should have your hands before using the bathroom, if you had a doorknob or other surface on the way in. touch when you wash your hands afterwards with a paper towel or cloth to cut the tap and open the door laundry. Dr. Tierno also recommends the use of facial tissues, which tend to him “germ reservoirs” has become, as we tend to cling to them even after we used to blow our nose.

For added protection, use an antibacterial soap with a germicide such as triclosan. According to Dr. Tierno: “I think germicides can be a valuable aid to good health, especially for groups at extra risk when it comes to infectious diseases for children, pregnant women, the elderly and the depressed immune systems are particularly vulnerable. . So germicides are no substitute for scrupulous hygiene to fight bacteria, have no side effects and have not been shown to contribute to increased bacterial resistance. ”

Even if you do not fall into one of high risk groups, you owe it to the next hand washing to prevent conscious germ transfer. In addition, habits are formed early, at best. If there are no children in the house, take the time leading to lead by example and teach them to wash their hands properly.