The importance of washing hands
Many of us today eat without washing our hands without being aware of the seriousness of the matter. Eating without washing our hands can lead to several health problems, as the hands are exposed to germs, bacteria, and viruses from the surrounding environment. When food is eaten without washing, these microbes are transferred to the mouth, which may cause diseases such as:
- Gastrointestinal infections: such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain due to bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) or salmonella.
- Viral infections: such as norovirus or rotavirus, which cause severe intestinal infections.
- Parasites: Some parasites can be transmitted through contaminated hands and cause diseases such as intestinal worms.
- Food poisoning: the result of harmful bacteria being transferred to food.
Actions that require washing hands after touching them.
Hand washing is one of the most important healthy habits that protect against the transmission of germs and diseases. There are many actions or things that we touch daily that require washing our hands after them, because they may be contaminated with bacteria, viruses or harmful substances. Here are some of these actions in detail:
After using the toilet:
Washing hands after using the toilet is one of the most important preventive measures, as feces contain bacteria such as E. coli, which can cause severe intestinal infections.
After touching waste or garbage:
Waste contains rotting materials and harmful bacteria, so hands should be washed well after disposing of garbage or touching its containers.
After sneezing or coughing:
When covering the mouth or nose with the hand while sneezing or coughing, germs are transferred to the hands, which requires washing them immediately to avoid spreading infection.
After touching animals or their waste:
Pets or wild animals may carry germs or parasites that are transferred to the hands, so hands should be washed after playing with them or cleaning their waste.
After touching public surfaces:
Surfaces such as door handles, elevator buttons, or handrails in public places are contaminated with germs because they are touched by many people.
After handling raw meat or eggs:
Raw meat and eggs may contain bacteria such as salmonella, so hands should be washed well after touching them to avoid food poisoning.
After changing baby diapers:
Baby diapers may contain bacteria or viruses that cause illness, so hands should be washed after changing them.
After touching money:
Banknotes and coins are passed between the hands of many people, making them a source of germs.
After touching chemicals or detergents:
Chemicals can be harmful when they come into contact with the skin or when they are transferred to the mouth, so hands should be washed after using them.
After touching a sick person:
If you are providing care for a sick person, especially if they are suffering from an infectious disease, you should wash your hands after touching them or their personal items.
The importance of hand washing:
Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds helps to get rid of germs effectively. If soap and water are not available, you can use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. This simple habit can significantly reduce the risk of contracting infectious diseases.
Finaly don't forget that a healthy mind resides in a healthy body, so that the smile remains on your face, keep your record.