Now that we are in the heat of cold and flu season, remember that washing your hands several times a day is the best way to prevent contagion. Likewise, this habit also reduces the risk of contracting other respiratory and infectious diseases that are transmitted through hand-mouth, hand-nose or hand-eye contact.
Frequent hand washing is so effective against germs because soap traps viruses and bacteria as we rub it on the skin. Then the water does the rest. Resorting to this habit after coming into contact with other people, touching public surfaces and even petting animals is essential to keep our bodies germ-free.
If you want to make sure that your hand wash is effective against viruses and bacteria, wet your hands with running water (better if it is hot) and apply soap. Then, rub one hand against the other for about 20 seconds. Finally, rinse them well with more running water, paying attention to the complete elimination of the foam, as that is where the residual germs are found. To dry them, use a clean towel or a hand dryer. One piece of advice, when turning off the tap, try not to touch it directly with your skin. Cover your hand with a paper towel, for example.
But what happens when we are in a place where there is no access to running water and soap. In this case, hand sanitizers are a good substitute. Although they do not reach the level of effectiveness against viruses and bacteria of traditional hand washing, they are quite close, according to a study conducted by the University of Chicago. The procedure is simple: apply the product to the palm of one hand and then join it with the other. Rub both of them together, making sure to cover the entire surface of your hand. Don't stop until your hands are dry.