Proper Hand Hygiene Best Way to Prevent Colds & Flu

A 2004 study by the University of Arizona indicates that most Americans don't realize that germs are hiding on many common objects outdoors, in their offices, and even in their homes.

Playground equipment, picnic tables, ATMs, kitchen sinks, office desks, computer keyboards, and escalator handrails are the places that are “germier” than most people think.

“It’s a common misconception that most illnesses are spread through the air by coughs and sneezes, rather than by hand contact,” says William Sistrunk, M.D., St. John’s infectious diseases specialist. “People touch these objects, and 80 percent of infections are spread through hand contact. The solution is to practice proper hand hygiene by washing with soap and water or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.”


THE GERMIEST PLACES

The kitchen sink is one of the germiest places in the house; it’s even more contaminated with bacteria than the toilet bowl and garbage can, the study says. Keep in mind that cleaning is not the same as disinfection, Dr. Sistrunk says.

For a less-germy home:

• Clean kitchens and bathrooms regularly with bleach or a color-safe disinfectant spray.
• After handling raw foods, wash cutting boards and knives with soap and hot water.
• Replace sponges and dishrags often.
• Change hand-drying towels often.
• Close the lid before flushing the toilet to keep germs from contaminating nearby surfaces.

Office desks, computer keyboards, and elevator buttons are usually germier than the toilet seat at work. Dr. Sistrunk recommends disinfecting your workspace yourself, particularly if you share your desk, keyboard, or phone with other employees. One option is to clean surfaces with a disinfectant cloth, “but don't wipe it off. You have to let it dry,” Dr. Sistrunk says.

Surprisingly, outdoor portable toilets are actually cleaner than picnic tables, shopping cart handles, escalator handles, and playground equipment, according to the study. Playground equipment is the dirtiest of the bunch, presenting a health danger to children. Carry hand sanitizer with you on outings and sanitize your and your children’s hands before and after playing, Dr. Sistrunk recommends. ATMs actually have more germs than a public restroom doorknob. Again, hand sanitizer is the key in this situation.


HOW TO WASH YOUR HANDS

Wash with soap and water for  10-15 seconds OR use alcohol hand rub.