Meaning and Importance of Germs Hygiene
Health is wealth. This common saying holds a lot of weight because it has truth behind it. But what exactly is germs prevention and how can you prevent germs from happening? ways to prevent diseases and how to take care of yourself so you can live your healthiest, best life.
Stopping the spread of germs is as easy as thoroughly washing your hands or covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
Given our current atmosphere this activity is perfect for helping children learn about the spread of germs and the importance of healthy practices, such as hand washing.
There was a time when people got sick and no one knew why. They didn’t know that germs invisible to the naked eye were common.
The first line of defense is to keep germs at bay by following good personal hygiene habits. Prevent infection before it begins and avoid spreading it to others with these simple measures.
Although most cases of food-borne germs are not dangerous, some can lead to serious medical conditions, including kidney failure and meningitis. You can prevent infections by food-borne pathogens in your household by preparing and storing foods safely.
The National Library of Medicine points out some steps we can all take to save ourselves and others from illnesses ranging from cold or flu to worse infections.
What are germs?
Germs are microorganisms. This means that they can be seen only through a microscope. They can be found everywhere – in the air, soil, and water. There are also germs on your skin and in your body.
Many germs live in and on our bodies without causing harm. Some even help us to stay healthy. But some germs can make you sick. Infectious diseases are diseases that are caused by germs.
Read Also: The Meaning of Personal Hygiene
The main types of germs are bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
How do germs spread?
There are different ways that germs can spread, including
- Through touching a person who has the germs or making other close contact with them, such as kissing, hugging, or sharing cups or eating utensils
- Through breathing air after a person with the germs coughs or sneezes
- Through touching the feces (poop) of someone who has the germs, such as changing diapers, then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
- Through touching objects and surfaces that have germs on them, then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
- From mother to baby during pregnancy and/or childbirth
- From insect or animal bites
- From contaminated food, water, soil, or plants
How can I protect myself and others from germs?
You can help protect yourself and others from germs:
- When you have to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or use the inside of your elbow
- Wash your hands well and often. You should scrub them for at least 20 seconds. It is important to do this when you are most likely to get and spread germs:
- Before, during, and after preparing food
- Before eating food
- Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea
- Before and after treating a cut or wound
- After using the toilet
- After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
- After handling pet food or pet treats
- After touching garbage
- If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
- Stay home if you are sick
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
- Practice food safety when handling, cooking, and storing food
