All articles tagged with #handwashing
San Antonio Metro Health reports local cryptosporidiosis cases (10 in Bexar County) and urges swimmers to take precautions: wash hands with soap and water (not alcohol-based sanitizers, which don’t kill Cryptosporidium), avoid swallowing pool water, and follow CDC guidance on safe drinking water, food safety, and reducing fecal contact during sex for two weeks after diarrhea ends.
Dermatologists say cleansing with your hands is usually the safest, most effective way to wash your body, offering better control and less risk of transferring bacteria when hands are clean. Washcloths and loofahs can disrupt the skin barrier and may harbor bacteria, especially if not properly cleaned between uses. A washcloth can help with stubborn dirt, but it shouldn’t be used daily; if used, wash it regularly and let it dry to prevent bacteria growth. For most people, a hands-only cleanse provides an adequate clean and gentler skincare overall.
Norovirus infections are rising across the U.S., a year‑round virus often called the winter vomiting disease. Experts say it spreads easily through direct contact, contaminated food/liquids, or touching contaminated surfaces, with dehydration being the biggest risk. There’s no specific medical treatment for norovirus beyond supportive care, so emphasis is on staying hydrated and practicing thorough handwashing (not just sanitizer), while avoiding people who are actively vomiting. The surge is not expected to last long and may subside as summer gatherings increase exposure and transmission tapers off.
Norovirus cases are rising in the UK, putting extra pressure on the NHS with four trusts declaring critical incidents. The highly infectious winter vomiting bug spreads through close contact, contaminated surfaces, food, and water, prompting Health Security Agency guidance that handwashing with soap and warm water is essential (not alcohol gel). Those affected should stay home for 48 hours after symptoms end, avoid handling food, and refrain from visiting vulnerable people in hospitals or care homes.
A study using sensors in hospital bathrooms revealed that nearly 44% of people do not wash their hands after flushing, highlighting the need for more effective behavioral strategies to improve hygiene and prevent infection spread in healthcare settings.
Cases of norovirus are on the rise in the Northeastern U.S., with the CDC reporting a higher proportion of positive tests in this region compared to others. Norovirus is highly contagious and can cause sudden onset of vomiting, diarrhea, and general discomfort, typically lasting two to three days. Those at highest risk include young children, older individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. The best defense against norovirus is frequent handwashing and thorough cleaning of surfaces, especially during the peak winter season.
Cases of norovirus are on the rise in the Northeastern U.S., with the CDC reporting a higher proportion of positive tests in that region compared to others. Norovirus is highly contagious and can cause sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea, typically lasting two to three days. Those at risk include young children, older people, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The best defense against norovirus is frequent handwashing and cleaning of surfaces, especially during the peak winter season.
Cases of norovirus are on the rise in the Northeastern U.S., with the CDC reporting a higher proportion of positive tests in this region compared to others. Norovirus is highly contagious and can cause sudden onset of vomiting and diarrhea, typically lasting two to three days. Those at risk include young children, older people, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The best defense against norovirus is frequent handwashing and cleaning of surfaces, especially during the peak winter season. While the current nationwide trajectory of norovirus doesn't seem significantly different from past years, a surge is expected at this time of year.
Health officials in Washtenaw County, Michigan, have confirmed two cases of hepatitis A and are urging community members to get vaccinated and practice good handwashing to prevent the spread of the virus. The cases are unrelated and likely contracted during international travel. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, jaundice, and stomach pain, and vaccination is recommended for adults and children. Hand sanitizer is not effective against the virus, and individuals at higher risk, such as drug users, homeless individuals, and men who have sex with men, are encouraged to get vaccinated. Wastewater surveillance has shown an increase in hepatitis A virus detection, indicating the need for increased vigilance.
Contrary to the popular belief that it takes 21 days to form a habit, recent research indicates there is no magic number, and the time it takes can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the behavior. Simple habits like handwashing may become automatic in just one to two weeks, while more complex habits such as regular gym attendance can take months. The study suggests that creating habit-friendly environments and using cues can facilitate habit formation. It also warns that once habits are formed, they can make individuals less responsive to changes, even when they are necessary.
Experts suggest that while public bathrooms are hot spots for germs due to high traffic and the variety of microbes people carry, the health risks are minimal if proper hygiene is practiced. Key precautions include minimizing contact with high-touch surfaces, thorough hand washing, and not touching your face. Using toilet seat protectors or disinfectant wipes can offer additional safety, but the risk of infection from surfaces like toilet seats is generally low, especially if the skin is intact. The likelihood of contracting respiratory viruses like COVID-19 in a public bathroom is also low due to the short duration of exposure.
The Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association (GDAHA) has implemented visitor restrictions in response to the increasing number of respiratory virus cases. The restrictions include no visitations from individuals with respiratory symptoms or anyone under the age of 14. Some hospital areas may have stricter guidelines for specific patients. GDAHA member hospitals emphasize the importance of handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when fever-free to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. The restrictions aim to ensure the safety of patients and employees during the respiratory season.
To prevent catching a cold, experts recommend washing hands frequently, disinfecting high-touch surfaces, getting enough sleep, practicing healthy habits, and considering wearing a mask, especially in crowded spaces. While supplements like zinc, vitamin C, and probiotics are commonly used, there is limited scientific evidence to support their effectiveness. It's important to consult a doctor before trying any new supplements. If symptoms worsen or if there are underlying health conditions, it's advisable to seek medical care. Ultimately, a cold will run its course and does not require specific medication or antibiotics.
Using your phone on the toilet can have negative health consequences. Sitting and straining while scrolling can cause hemorrhoids to engorge with blood, leading to pain, swelling, or bleeding. Additionally, taking your phone to the bathroom exposes it to bacteria, including E.coli, which can cause illness. Many people do not clean their phones regularly, making them dirtier than the toilet seat. To reduce the risk, limit the time spent on the toilet, wash hands thoroughly, clean the phone regularly, and ensure the toilet seat is down when flushing.
Thirteen norovirus outbreaks have occurred on cruise ships in 2023, with the most recent outbreak affecting a Viking Cruises ship. Experts attribute the rise in cases to the highly-congested environments on cruise ships and the lack of exposure to common illnesses during the pandemic. Norovirus, the most common cause of gastroenteritis, spreads through consuming contaminated food or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. Cruise ships have prevention programs in place, and passengers are advised to wash their hands thoroughly and report any illness to the ship's medical staff.