Clean Hands Help Beat COVID-19
When COVID-19 first reached the United States, people flocked to grocery stores to purchase hand sanitizer and hand soap. Without a doubt, these items can play a pivotal role in preventing the spread of dangerous contagions; they are indispensable during this pandemic season. However, they are only effective if they are used correctly. The team at Periodontics and Implant Dentistry of Tallahassee is deeply concerned about the health and safety of everyone in our community, which is why we are providing this brief guide on proper hand-cleaning technique.
Tips for Effective Handwashing
Some people simply squirt a bit of soap on their hands and quickly rinse it off. However, a little more effort is required to achieve truly clean hands. You should:
- Get your hands wet before applying soap.
- Work the soap into a lather, and rub it around your hands for about 20 seconds. Don’t neglect to clean your fingertips and underneath your fingernails.
- Rinse the soap off under warm running water. Cold water is less effective at cleaning away germs and oils.
- Dry your hands with a paper towel or air dryer.
When to Wash Your Hands
To protect yourself and those around you from contagions, you should wash your hands in all of the following circumstances:
- After you finish using the bathroom
- When you get home from any public place
- After you sneeze, cough, or blow your nose
- After you shake hands
- Both before and after handling raw meat or other foods
- After you take out the garbage
- When you finish putting your shoes on
- After you touch any surface or item that has come into contact with a lot of other people
Admittedly, all of that handwashing can be tough on your skin. To protect your hands and keep them from drying out, you may find it beneficial to use a moisturizing hand cream a few times each day.
Tips for Effective Use of Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer does not have the same cleaning power as soap and water. However, it can kill many types of bacteria and viruses and be a useful tool in the fight against COVID-19. Here are some situations that call for the use of hand sanitizer:
- After you touch elevator buttons or door handles
- After you put gas in your car
- After you use a shopping cart
- Before and after you contact any high-touch surfaces
To use hand sanitizer, place a small amount in the palm of your hand. Then, rub your hands together until the liquid dries completely.
Are you using proper hand-cleaning technique? Your good habits could save lives!