10 Simple Health Practices: 3. Keeping Hands Clean in the Absence of Water

Ever since the outbreak of SARS six years ago and the recent H1N1 epidemic, the practice of washing hands has been emphasised once again. In many restrooms, we see posters of hand washing procedures. For more details on proper hand washing procedures, you can go to here.

Washing our hands often is the best way to stop germs and bacteria from spreading. The medical purpose is to cleanse the hands of pathogens which can cause the next potential disease to break out. However, the question is, how often can we wash our hands? Don’t tell me you have the liberty of running to the restroom from your office every now and then to wash your hands? Well, here are three easy ways that you can reduce the risk of contracting hand-transmitted diseases in spite of the absence of water:

1. Carry waterless hand sanitizers
This is a good way to kill germs on your hands when the nearest restroom or water is beyond your reach. You can practically use it on the go whenever you want and wherever you are. It is just so convenient. Such waterless hand sanitizers are readily available from the shelves of supermarkets and convenience stores.

2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
It is advisable not to touch these sensitive areas of your body especially after touching your computer keyboards, doorknobs or even stationery like pens and pencils. It is also best not to hold onto the railings and poles when taking public transport. These items and places are where germs and bacteria are frequently found. So touching your eyes after being in contact with such items exist a risk of catching an eye infection. Likewise for touching your nose and mouth, germs and bacteria can enter your body and upset your health especially if your immune system is exceptionally low on that particular day.

3. Wear gloves
I guess this is the last resort or option that you’ll want to take, especially for those working in offices. Wearing gloves might prove to be too extreme and paranoid for your bosses and clients. But then again, you can’t deny the fact that it is an effective way to prevent diseases from spreading, do you?

Well, I hope the above list helps. Making sure and keeping your hands clean at all times is certainly the first line of defence against contracting infections and diseases.