subject: How To Help Prevent The Spread Of Germs [print this page] According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) the number one way that influenza viruses and colds get spread is through direct contact with the saliva of other individuals. This can be a result of someone coughing or sneezing and the droplets landing on a nearby individual. This could also be the result of hand to person contact or contact with a surface that the infected individual has touched. There are some germs that can survive more than two hours on surfaces like counters, keyboards and desks. Therefore to help prevent the spread of illness it is important to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands frequently.
When a wash room is not available you can use alcohol-based sanitizer gels or wipes. The concentration of alcohol in these products must be greater than 60% for them to be effective. These gels and wipes can kill up to 99.99% of germs on contact. When you use this type of product it is also important to use it correctly so that it effectively kills germs. To use it correctly you should apply an amount similar to the size of a silver dollar to the palm of your writing hand. Rub it into your hands thoroughly so that it comes in contact with the entire surface of your hands. Let your hands dry completely being careful not to put your hands in your mouth or touch other surfaces until your hands are dry.
It's not just important for you to practice good hand hygiene but it's important to teach your children to do the same. Parents should bathe their children regularly and show them how to properly wash their hands. There are a few steps to proper hand washing you should know. Start by saturating your hands with clean running water. It is preferable that you use warm water if possible. Apply soap and rub your hands together thoroughly. Make sure you lather the soap and water over all your hands and even your lower arms if possible. Rub your hands together for fifteen to twenty seconds and thoroughly rinse your hands. Dry your hands thoroughly. You can also use a paper towel to turn the faucet off to reduce your chances of contracting new germs on your hands.
