One way to help hold off illnesses this winter season is to be sure you use good handwashing techniques. Antibacterial soaps or hand sanitizers can help prevent spread of illnesses. The overall basic theme is to wash hands often, and with soap. This is still one of the more effective ways to help reduce the incidence of colds, flu, and other winter illness. Remember to cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, but then be sure to wash your hands well.
Dr. Dan
Consecutive exercise day #: 1233
Good topic Dr. Dan! To prevent food borne illness during food prep, it is recommended to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds to ensure adequate bacteria is eliminated. This could be a good rule of thumb for prevention of illness, colds, etc as well!
Right on Kelsey. We are thinking alike!
How does hand sanitizer compare to the washing hands as far as bacteria elimination? From what I’ve read, it’s fairly comparable, best is to use both, but I am curious on your take?
Kelsey–
Hand sanitizers were developed for use after washing hands, or for those times when soap and water is not readily available. The alcohol that they contain helps to kill germs on our skin, and is very effective to kill bacteria and most viruses. Several studies have concluded that the risk of spreading gastrointestinal and respiratory infection is decreased among families when using hand sanitizers. Overall, the hand sanitizers are more effective when used following good hand-washing with soap and water. It can be an easy step to help towards having a healthier winter season.