PINEVILLE -- In a world of modern technology and amazing scientific developments, handwashing is still the best way to prevent the spread of disease. Proper handwashing is the first line of defense against illnesses like colds, flu, meningitis, bronchiolitis, hepatitis A and most types of contagious diarrhea.
"Every day our hands come in contact with an amazing number and variety of germs like bacteria, viruses and fungi," says McDonald County Health Department administrator Paige Behm. "These germs are tiny living things we can't smell or see with the naked eye -- but they cause disease."
Touching a doorknob, a faucet, a handrail, a cell phone or any other surface, leaves a person with germs on their hands. When the eyes, nose, mouth or an open wound on the body are touched, the germs enter your body and can make you sick.
The best way to prevent the spread of disease is frequent handwashing, using the proper technique.
1. Wet hands with warm water.
2. Apply soap and lather well.
3. Rub hands together vigorously, between fingers, under nails, on wrists and forearms.
4. Scrub for approximately 20 seconds (try singing "Happy Birthday" through twice).
5. Rinse the soap off hands with warm running water.
6. Use disposable paper towels to dry hands.
7. Use the towel to turn off the faucet and then properly dispose of the towel.
To help adults and children develop good handwashing habits, good examples should be followed.
Wash hands:
• After using the bathroom or changing a diaper;
• After coughing or sneezing;
• Before eating or handling food, especially raw meat or eggs;
• After touching animals or handling trash;
• After visiting or caring for someone who is sick or caring for a wound;
• Before and after putting in or taking out contact lenses; and
• After handling money.
"The best way to protect against getting germs and illnesses from other people is frequent, proper handwashing," said Behm. "It's a simple solution that is literally at your fingertips!"
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Learn more at www.mcdonaldcountyhealth.com or by calling 417-223-7122. Public health -- working every day for healthier families, healthier communities, healthier you!
General News on 03/14/2019