Staying Healthy in a Germ-Filled World: Tips for Avoiding Common Infections

Since the pandemic hit us at the beginning of 2020, we’ve been following all the necessary precautions and safety guidelines to protect us from the shackles of the virus. Almost the entire world is aware of the virus and how you can catch it. But we know very little of this microscopical world where germs rule. Let us understand germs and how we can keep ourselves protected from them.

Germs are present everywhere, from our hands to the surface and even in the air we breathe or the water we drink. It is impossible to stay away from them. Not all germs are harmful to us. In fact, we are immune to the majority of the germs that linger around us, as our bodies naturally develop fighting mechanisms to combat the germs. Germs mainly are of 4 types, Bacteria, Fungi, Viruses, and Protozoans.

Whenever you are infected with any of these, white blood cells, antibodies, and other mechanisms present in your body start to combat whatever is causing the infection in your body. This helps you to stay protected most of the time. However, it is important to keep a few tactics in mind so that you’re not always dependent on your body to protect you from these germs. Here are the best tips to avoid common infections:

Frequent Handwashing

This is what we’ve been trained during the pandemic and have done countless times. Handwashing is the best possible way you can keep yourself from harmful germs. A simple habit of washing your hands with bar soap or a liquid hand wash like Dettol Handwash for at least 20 seconds can reduce the risk of spreading harmful germs.

This is also helpful as our hands act as the mediator between the physical world and our mouth. We often touch things around us and then use our hands to eat which can result in carrying harmful bacteria on the surface into our mouth. Sometimes, if you are outside and there is no method available to wash your hands, then any hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol or more can also keep your hands protected.

The reason we need to emphasize this more than any other habit is because of the frequency we touch our faces. Our hands are constant explorers, touching various surfaces throughout the day. Some studies suggest that we touch our face 16 times in an hour. It is imperative to keep our hands clean and free from germs to avoid any harmful infection and if possible, we should cultivate the habit of minimizing facial contact.

Respiratory Hygiene

More recently we have experienced a respiratory infection that caused millions of deaths around the world. We are often susceptible to infections that are caused by breathing germs and viruses. Common Cold, Influenza, and other respiratory infections are often transmitted through tiny droplets that can be carried with the wind to certain distances or surfaces. Respiratory hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of these infections to others.

It is advised that whenever we are coughing or sneezing, we should cover our mouth with either a piece of cloth or use the insides of our elbow as a barrier to protect our sneeze from falling out. This practice helps contain respiratory droplets and prevents them from becoming airborne, reducing the risk of infecting those nearby.

Surface and Environmental Hygiene

While personal hygiene is vital, keeping a clean environment around is also important. Germs and viruses can accumulate in the house and around most-touched things like TV remotes, switches, utensils, etc. Using disinfection and sanitation methods in our house can help us eliminate the chance for germs to grow.

Cleaning tools like Dettol’s 4in1 all Surface Cleaners can clean and sanitize your house, ensuring germ-free living. You can also use a disinfectant wipe to clean down your often-touched objects to stop them from being infected with germs and bacteria. For the kitchen, you should always keep the sink clean, the sink can foster all the bad germs in your kitchen, and using a simple bleach or kitchen cleaner can help you in keeping your kitchen safe.

Safe Food Handling

Food is something we need to take care of. Food-induced illnesses are a common source of infection that can result from consuming contaminated food. Stale food or simple undercooked food can carry tons of germs directly into your body. Most stomach aches are caused due to this reason. To avoid this, it is important to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption. Some fruits and vegetables also contain worms and hence cutting a fruit or a vegetable before consumption gives us a chance to look at it.

Meats and seafood should be cooked at the recommended temperature so that the germs or any illness-inducing bacteria do not affect us. Similarly for eggs, boiling or cooking till the recommended temperature reduces the risk of any germ infestation. Checking for expiration dates for stored or refrigerated items can also reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses. By adopting these practices, we can enjoy our meals with confidence in their safety.

Personal Hygiene Habits

Apart from handwashing and respiratory hygiene mentioned above, personal hygiene extends to a lot of things that can help you stay healthy and away from harmful germs. Regular bathing, brushing your teeth twice every day and even grooming helps you in forming a holistic approach towards cleanliness. Clean and regularly washed clothes also reduce the chance of any contamination.

Nails can often accumulate dirt and germs and hence, should be tripped and clipped regularly. Our footwear can also harbour germs and it is recommended to remove shoes when entering inside our homes to reduce any contamination from the outside world. These habits, when collectively embraced, create a comprehensive personal hygiene routine that significantly reduces the risk of common infections.

Going the extra mile!

A healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone for preventing infections. Not only cleaning habits, but also boosting your immune system to prepare a defense mechanism is also important. Healthy foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals can boost your immune system. Hydrating yourself by drinking water and fluids regularly also counts.

Other than this, a proper sleep cycle and regular rest are also important for your body to grow and perfect its immune system. Staying informed about recommended vaccinations is a proactive measure in preventing various infectious diseases. Vaccines are a crucial tool in the public health arsenal, intends to offer protection against illnesses that were once widespread and potentially fatal.

In a world where infectious agents lurk around every corner, adopting a comprehensive approach to health and hygiene is paramount. The tips outlined in this guide cover key aspects of infection prevention, from personal and respiratory hygiene to environmental cleanliness and proactive healthcare measures.

By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we not only protect ourselves but also contribute to the well-being of our communities. Prevention is a collective effort, and everyone’s commitment to hygiene and health significantly impacts the overall public health landscape. Through informed choices and proactive measures, we can create a safer, healthier world for ourselves and those around us. It is up to us how we keep ourselves shielded from such germs by incorporating little hygiene habits.