hand_washingYou may have heard that we are trying to avoid the Swine Flu this winter. There is a big debate regarding the pros and cons of the H1N1 vaccine, but one great way of improving your odds against the illness is to wash your hands on a regular basis. Here are some guidelines that you probably learned in Kindergarten, but let me repeat just for good measure:

  • Use soap and water. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based cleanser that is at least 60% alcohol. The Center for Disease Control says that the cleansers are just as effective as soap and water UNLESS your hands are visibly dirty and then you should use soap.
  • Anti-bacterial soap is just as effective as regular soap. With all bar soap, take a moment to rinse the bar before using it. There may be residual bacteria from a previous use.
  • Try to find paper towels to dry your hands. Electric hot air blowers may only serve to help breed bacteria and then blow it all over the room. Not great…..
  • Hot water vs. Cold water? Makes no difference. None. Just go wash your hands.
  • Rub your hands vigorously while washing, making sure to get as much of your hands clean as possible.

You probably don’t want to become “that person” who is compulsively washing every minute of the day, but according to the Mayo Clinic, here are some key times to be especially alert:

  • Preparing food, especially raw meat or poultry
  • Using the toiletChanging a diaper
  • Touching an animal or animal toys, leashes or waste
  • Blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing into your hands
  • Treating wounds
  • Touching a sick or injured person
  • Handling garbage or something that could be contaminated, such as a cleaning cloth or soiled shoes