Hygiene and cleanliness has always been important to the well being of any person and ultimately, society. However, it was never fully understood which is one cause of death over the millennia. In modern times, we understand how important it is thanks to science and of course, right now, it is vital to keep clean. It’s one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of communicable diseases such as the COVID virus we’re dealing with right now.
Take this example… in the nineteenth century, around a quarter of women died in childbirth from peurperal sepsis (commonly known as childbed fever). This was caused by a bacteria which was unknowingly transmitted by the doctors attending to the women. Once hand washing was introduced in the delivery room, that death rate dropped under 1%.
Of course, we take it for granted today and it should go without saying that washing hands after going to the toilet or changing a diaper should be done automatically. E coli, salmonella and Hep A can all result from digesting just a small amount of fecal matter.
And of course, viruses, as we are now seeing very clearly, are transmitted very easily. Shaking hands is a very common way to transmit a virus if hands haven’t been washed prior, which is one reason why we’re being told to social distance.
Handling food is another way that diseases can be transmitted if hands haven’t been washed, especially when touching meat or fish.
Basically, you should wash your hands after coming in contact with trash, dirt, visiting a sick person and much more. Be careful and use your own powers of discernment. If in doubt wash them anyway.
So how do you wash your hands? Soap and clean warm water. Wash for 20 seconds or more. Alcohol based hand sanitizer can also be used, with a minimum of 60% alcohol content.
You should ideally also take any jewelery off as well and wash them too. Dry your hands on a clean towel or use paper towel. If you have access to one a hot air dryer also works.
Simply, stay well and healthy and be very mindful of what you are touching, especially in these trying times.
Remember, if you’re in pain, please make an appointment to come in and see us.
