In the wake of this past winter’s strong flu season, health care professionals are emphasizing the importance of hand washing. In fact, hand hygiene is now regarded as one of the most important elements of infection control.
A recent study explores the role hand washing can play in stopping gastrointestinal virus outbreaks. Stomach viruses are highly contagious. It takes only one particle to infect a human, compared to roughly 50 to 100 particles of the flu virus. And, the virus causes 19 to 21 million illnesses a year.
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs does have an impact, and can help slow the spread. But, because person-to-person is the dominant way the gastrointestinal virus spreads, even a thorough cleaning can’t stop transmission when people engage in ordinary activities like shaking hands. So, it seems hand hygiene is key. Here are a few ways to help encourage proper hand washing at work:
- Hang signs in prominent locations, such as bathrooms and kitchens
- Invest in pleasant smelling soap and quality hand towels
- Remind employees hand washing benefits their health
One of the easiest ways to ensure good health, business productivity and efficiency in the office is good hygiene and cleanliness. The professionals at SFM Janitorial are ready and willing to do their part, providing high quality, green cleaning solutions.