H1N1, the importance of hand washing

  • Published
  • By 509th
  • Medical Squadron
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo.- --  Summer is over and the winter months are fast approaching, along with flu season. Something important to keep in mind at the beginning of the school-year and while at home; sound personal hygiene. Personal hygiene is one of the most effective ways to combat against the spread of germs. Proper handwashing can prevent the spread of the flu virus. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. 

According to the Center for Disease Control, scientists estimate that most people do not wash their hands, and if they do they are not doing it properly. Scientists also explain that 80% of all infections are transmitted through the hands. Children constantly touch their eyes and noses with their hands, and these germs can live on the body for an extended period of time. 

A good rule of thumb is to avoid sneezing into your hands. When your hands become contaminated there is a greater chance of exposing the germs to everything else you touch. Sneezing in your elbow can be an alternative in protecting your hands from contamination. 

When it is time to start washing your hands, turn on the water, wet your hands, apply a good amount of soap, and lather up. You should wash your hands for 20 seconds or about the time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice. Focus on washing the front and back of hands and in between the fingers, around the nails and then rinse all the water off. Use something to wipe your hands after that, preferably something disposable, like a paper towel, and then use that to turn off the faucet as well. If you get a chance, use a paper towel to open the door to the bathroom as you're leaving. 

The H1N1 is a contagious virus that is transmitted airborne. Education and awareness are paramount when it comes to decreasing the effects of H1N1. The signs and symptoms for H1N1 include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, diarrhea, vomiting and fatigue. If you think you are sick with the flu-like, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone unless to get medical care. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to avoid making them sick. Members that are ill should try to cover their mouth with their elbow if they sneeze or cough, and if a tissue is used it should be thrown away. These are sound ways to prevent the spread of disease; however, the best line of defense against H1N1 is proper hand washing. 

Work, school, and public gathering places are all excellent settings for illness to occur, but it can be controlled. The flu virus is an illness that can occur in close settings: however, this virus can be controlled by monitoring your family members for signs and symptoms, and instilling the importance of handwashing techniques and the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers.