Not just Covid. 12 other diseases that can be prevented with hand hygiene.
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May 5th is observed as #WorldHandHygieneDay to spread awareness about the importance of hand hygiene.
Hand hygiene is the practice of keeping our hands clean and free of germs. It is an essential aspect of our daily lives that can help prevent the spread of diseases. While hand hygiene has been emphasized more during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has always been crucial in preventing the transmission of various infectious diseases. In this article, we will discuss 12 diseases that can be prevented by hand hygiene apart from COVID-19.
Read the 7 steps of hand washing. Are you doing it right?
12 diseases that can be prevented with Hand Hygiene:
Influenza (Flu): Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can be spread through respiratory droplets or by touching a surface contaminated with the virus. Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizers can help prevent the spread of the flu.
Common Cold: The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that can spread through contact with contaminated objects or by touching a person with the virus. Practicing hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of the cold virus.
Gastrointestinal Infections: Gastrointestinal infections are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites and can be spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Washing hands before handling food and after using the bathroom can help prevent these infections.
Hepatitis A: Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver that can be spread through contact with contaminated fecal matter. Washing hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating or preparing food can help prevent the spread of the hepatitis A virus.
Norovirus: Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that can cause gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu. It can spread through contaminated food or surfaces. Washing hands frequently can help prevent the spread of norovirus.
Rotavirus: Rotavirus is a common cause of diarrhoeal illness in infants and young children. It can be spread through contact with fecal matter. Washing hands frequently and properly can help prevent the spread of rotavirus.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause severe respiratory infections, particularly in infants and young children. It can be spread through respiratory droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces. Practicing hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of RSV.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD): HFMD is a viral infection that can cause blisters or sores on the hands, feet, and in the mouth. It can be spread through contact with contaminated fecal matter or respiratory secretions. Washing hands frequently can help prevent the spread of HFMD.
Impetigo: Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria that can be spread through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated objects. Washing hands and keeping skin clean can help prevent the spread of impetigo.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, transparent layer that covers the white part of the eye. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects. Practicing hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of conjunctivitis.
Meningitis: Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria and can spread through contact with respiratory or throat secretions. Washing hands frequently can help prevent the spread of meningitis.
Tuberculosis (TB): Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that can affect the lungs and other parts of the body. It can be spread through respiratory droplets or by touching contaminated objects. Practicing hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of TB.
In conclusion, hand hygiene is a simple yet effective measure that can help prevent various diseases. All it takes is maintaining good hand hygiene; never neglect the importance of this simple basic habit.
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