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How to break the cycles |
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Hand hygiene |
Research shows that infections are commonly spread by hands and although they may look clean can be harbouring germs and bugs. It is commonly accepted that cleaning hands at the right time and in the right place can reduce infections but there are important issues that you should be aware of:
- Thoroughly washing hands and nails with soap and water is considered to be the best method of getting rid of infectious bugs -
BUT constant hand washing can dry out the skin and produce cracks which provide an entry point for bacteria such as MRSA. You should use an emollient barrier cream regularly during the day.
- Alcohol gels or antimicrobial hand rubs, used correctly, will kill most bacteria and viruses. They are an ideal alternative when washing is not an option. It is convenient and can save time -
BUT ALCOHOL HAND RUBS DO NOT KILL SPORES. If there is any diarrhoea or vomiting, stomach pain or C.
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difficile infection you must WASH particularly after using the toilet, before eating or handling food, cutlery or utensils. This advice applies to the patient, their carers and visitors.
Using alcohol rubs can also dry out the skin and produce cracks which provide an entry point for bacteria such as MRSA. You should use an emollient barrier cream regularly during the day.
- Using skin wipes to physically remove bacteria, viruses or spores is an adequate alternative when hand washing is not practical.
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A survey carried out December 2007 revealed that
“6.6 million people in Britain do not wash their hands after going to the toilet” and “69% are not washing hands before eating” |
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Swine Flu and Hand Hygiene
In May 2009 the World Health Organisation warned the international community that - “We may be facing a major swine flu pandemic and that it could lie dormant for several months only to reappear as a more virulent mutated strain later in the year. If this should happen, keeping surfaces disinfected, cleaning our skin and hands will be a vital element in preventing the spread of the infection. Using face masks will be of limited use in affording the wearer protection.“ |
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