As the novel COVID-19 virus spread into a global pandemic, infection control measures became a part of our daily lives. Nearly overnight, face masks were required, social distancing guidelines were in place, and stay-at-home orders were mandated. However, thanks to these practices, the transition out of quarantine and into our “new normal” has begun. To keep you and your loved ones safe, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are urging the public to continue practicing proper hand hygiene both in and out of your home. Read on for the power of handwashing, step-by-step instructions, and whether hand sanitizer is equally as effective.
The Science Behind the Power of Handwashing
Did you know that a recent study conducted by the Harvard School of Medicine found 5 million bacteria can live on each of your hands at any given time? If left alone, they can continue to spread from person to person, which is a recipe for a pandemic. Fortunately, the simple act of washing your hands can prevent this from occurring! By working the soap into a lather, its chemical makeup can effectively lift dirt, viruses, and microbes from the skin. Then, the water rinses it away and leaves your hands clean and as germ-free as possible!
5 Steps to Properly Washing Your Hands
To practice proper hand hygiene, it is important to consider frequency. Therefore, always make sure to wash your hands after using the restroom, when preparing food, and once your return home from errands. However, following the proper steps is equally as crucial. Luckily, you can do so by using the below five steps:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water.
- Apply your soap of choice into the palm of your hand and work it into a later.
- Scrub the fronts and backs of your hands, your fingers, and underneath any jewelry for 20 seconds.
- Rinse both of your hands to wash away the soap.
- Dry your hands with a disposable paper towel, air dryer, or clean cloth towel.
Is Hand Sanitizer Equally as Effective?
According to the experts, the answer is no. However, hand sanitizer does play a crucial role in practicing proper hand hygiene amid a pandemic. For example, if you are out running errands and find yourself unable to wash your hands, like in your car, then hand sanitizer is a great option! Just make sure to treat it as a short-term solution and wash your hands with soap and water as soon as you are able.
As the world continues to battle COVID-19, we must all do our part in limiting the transmission of this potentially fatal virus. Therefore, prioritize proper hand hygiene both in and out of your home!
About the Practice
At Brown & Nawrocki Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry, a compassionate team, convenient hours, and world-class care come together for a truly exemplary dental experience. Plus, they have an in-house prosthodontist on staff! So, whether you need a routine cleaning, smile upgrade, or complex restorative procedure, their staff is ready to help in a safe, convenient location. If you would like additional information on how they are protecting their patients during COVID-19, visit their website or give them a call at 386-677-1046.