Keep your hands clean, menas to stay healthy. As easy as it may seem, washing your hands involves a lot of do's and don'ts that people do not know about.
On the occasion of World Hand Hygiene Day, here is a list of facts that will allow you to always choose the right way to wash your hands.
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Myth: Antibacterial soap is more effective
Made: You do not need an antibacterial soap for clean hands. For regular use, choose any hand soap. Antibacterial soaps should only be used when a person is ill or in health facilities where patients have insufficient immunity. If you have pets at home, the antibacterial soap makes sense.
However, avoid over-use of antibacterial products as this could significantly reduce the healthy bacteria living on your skin. In addition, their excessive use can also make your body less effective in fighting new germs.
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Myth: Hand sanitizers can replace soaps
Made: Hand sanitizers (with a 60% alcohol content) should be used if you do not have access to soap and water. Although disinfectants only remove some germs quickly for a while, using soap and water to wash your hands can keep them away for a long time. Disinfectants should be applied until your hands are dry, which takes only 20 seconds.
In addition, the effectiveness of disinfectants decreases when used on greasy or dirty hands.
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Myth: Hands must be washed for a full minute
Made: Just remember 20 seconds of brushing every time you plan to wash your hands. If you are not sure of the duration of 20 seconds, rub the "Happy Birthday" melody twice in your head. Since hand sanitizers are not enough to remove harmful chemicals, it is important to take 20 seconds to wash your hands with soap as it penetrates the cell wall and kills all viruses and bacteria.
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Myth: Wash your hands really dirty because moisture attracts bacteria
Made: While moisture attracted bacteria, the Global Hygiene Council finally revealed that it was necessary to wash one's hands six times a day. If it is difficult to keep track, remember to wash your hands before meals and after your visit to the toilet.
Also watch for signs of excessive hand washing. If you are particularly concerned about cleanliness and are afraid of dirt / germs, your concerns may be an obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which is a type of anxiety disorder.
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Myth: The toilet seat is the dirtiest place at home
Made: It's not just the toilets in your house. Your kitchen holds six seats out of 10 for the sunniest places in the house. Scientists explain that kitchen rags and sponges, sinks, toothbrush holders, pet bowls, coffee makers, faucet handles, pet toys, kitchen counters Stove knobs and vegetable chopping boards are the dirtiest places in the house.
Also avoid touching your eyes, nose, or food after touching these surfaces.
(Contributions from www.cdc.gov and www.aurorahealthcare.org)
