Is it Necessary to Sanitize Your Hands?

Hand sanitizing has become a common practice in our daily lives, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the rise of germs and bacteria, it’s natural to wonder whether washing your hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer is enough to keep us safe. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why sanitizing your hands is crucial and provide tips on how to do it effectively.

Why Sanitize Your Hands?

Sanitizing your hands is essential for several reasons:

1. Prevents the Spread of Illness: Hand sanitizer kills germs and bacteria that can cause illnesses like the common cold, flu, and infections. When you touch your face, eyes, or mouth with contaminated hands, you risk transferring these germs to your body.
2. Reduces Risk of Allergies and Skin Infections: Sanitizing your hands can help reduce the risk of allergies and skin infections caused by bacteria like MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).
3. Protects Your Mouth and Nose: When you eat or blow your nose without washing your hands, you risk transferring germs to your mouth and nose, which can lead to infections.

When to Sanitize Your Hands

You should sanitize your hands:

1. Before Eating: Germs can be present on food and utensils, so sanitizing your hands before eating can prevent the spread of illnesses.
2. After Touching Animals or Petting Zoos: Animals can carry zoonotic diseases, which can be transferred to humans through contact. Sanitizing your hands after interacting with animals is crucial.
3. After Using the Bathroom: The bathroom is a breeding ground for bacteria and germs, so sanitizing your hands after using the bathroom is essential.
4. After Sneezing or Coughing: When you sneeze or cough, germs can spread through the air and onto your hands. Sanitizing your hands immediately after can help prevent the spread of illness.
5. After Handling Garbage or Cleaning Disinfectant: Handling trash or cleaning disinfectant can expose you to germs and bacteria. Sanitizing your hands after completing these tasks is vital.

How to Sanitize Your Hands

To sanitize your hands effectively:

1. Use an FDA-Approved Hand Sanitizer: Choose a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol.
2. Apply the Sanitizer: Apply the hand sanitizer to the palm of your hand and rub it all over your hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Let it Sit: Let the sanitizer sit on your hands for at least 15 seconds to allow it to kill the germs.
4. Rub it In: Rub the sanitizer into your skin until it’s fully absorbed.
5. Wash Your Hands: If you have access to soap and water, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Conclusion

Sanitizing your hands is a vital part of maintaining good personal hygiene and preventing the spread of illnesses. By understanding when and how to sanitize your hands, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting diseases. Remember to use an FDA-approved hand sanitizer, apply it correctly, and don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and water when possible.