Wash your hands for good health
Staff, The Hillsboro Argus
September 13, 2011
With kids back in school, and the new movie “Contagion” in theaters, there’s no better time to revisit the Hand Hygiene initiative, “Help Us Help You,” brought to you by the Oregon Association of Hospitals and Health Systems.
Since 2008, this program has focused on empowering individuals to ask questions of their health care providers regarding hand washing. Simply put, asking a provider, “Have you washed your hands?”
This question should also be asked to each other. It’s a proven and effective method of reducing transmission of viruses and bacteria as we approach the new cold and flu season, said Diane Waldo, director of quality and clinical services for OAHHS.”As we begin another school year, we want students and parents to ‘refresh’ their efforts on hand hygiene ahead of the flu season,” Waldo said. “The single most effective way to reduce the spread of germs is through good hand hygiene. In addition, we want people to feel empowered to ask those around them if they have washed their hands.”
Health officials suggest that when you wash your hands, use soap and warm water. Wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn’t need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.
The flu is a seasonal disease caused by the Orthomyxoviridae virus. It spreads via airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces. It’s highly contagious - people can spread the flu even if they don’t know they’re sick. Influenza spreads mainly person-to-person when infected people cough or sneeze. Good hand hygiene reduces this risk.
For more, see www.oahhs.org/handwashing.
Link to the story: http://www.oregonlive.com/argus/index.ssf/2011/09/wash_your_hands_for_good_healt.html
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