In an age where health and cleanliness are more important than ever, maintaining good hand hygiene is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent illness. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the common cold, clean hands are our first line of defence. As we navigate through 2024, it’s essential to stay updated on the best practices for hand hygiene. Here’s everything you need to know.

Why hand hygiene matters

Our hands are the primary way germs are transferred. We touch our faces, food, and various surfaces throughout the day, potentially spreading harmful bacteria and viruses. Effective hand hygiene can reduce the spread of infections, protect our immune systems, and promote overall health.

The science behind hand hygiene

When we wash our hands properly, we remove dirt, viruses, and bacteria that we may have picked up from surfaces or through person-to-person contact. Using soap and water is highly effective because soap molecules break down the oils and debris on our hands, trapping and removing germs. Hand sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol are also effective, particularly when soap and water are not available.

Best practices for hand hygiene in 2024

1. Regular handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Key times include before eating, after using the loo, after coughing or sneezing, and after touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
2. Hand sanitisers: Use hand sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not accessible. Remember to cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
3. Moisturise: Frequent handwashing can lead to dry skin. Use a hand cream or lotion to keep your skin hydrated and prevent cracks, which can become entry points for germs.
4. Avoid touching your face: Reduce the risk of transferring germs from your hands to your mouth, nose, or eyes by minimising face-touching.
5. Educate others: Promote hand hygiene in your community by teaching others the importance of clean hands, especially children who are more prone to infections.

Navigating the world: from bins to buses

As soon as you step out of your home, you’re likely to encounter a myriad of surfaces teeming with germs. Here are some common culprits:

• Waste bins: Taking out the rubbish might seem harmless, but bins can harbour all sorts of bacteria. Always wash your hands after handling waste.
• Public transport: From bus handles to train seats, public transport is a hotspot for germs. Keep hand sanitiser handy and avoid touching your face until you can wash your hands properly.
• Shopping carts: Supermarket trolleys are touched by countless people every day. Use sanitising wipes if available or sanitise your hands after use.
• Door handles and lift buttons: These high-touch surfaces can be breeding grounds for germs. Use your elbow or a tissue to avoid direct contact when possible, and clean your hands afterwards.
• Toilets: Public toilets are obvious germ zones. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after use, and avoid touching the door handle on your way out by using a tissue.
• Escalators and handrails: These are often touched by many people and rarely cleaned. If you must hold on, sanitise your hands afterwards.
• Shaking hands: While a friendly gesture, handshakes can transfer germs. In the age of COVID-19, consider alternatives like a fist bump or a simple nod.
• Face touching: We often touch our faces without thinking – scratching an itch or adjusting our glasses. Try to be mindful of this habit and keep your hands clean to minimise the risk.

Innovations in hand hygiene

The hand hygiene landscape is continuously evolving. Here are some of the latest trends and innovations:

• Smart sanitisers: These devices dispense the right amount of sanitiser and can be placed in high-traffic areas. Some models are even equipped with sensors to track usage and ensure compliance in public spaces.
• Eco-friendly products: Sustainable hand hygiene products, including biodegradable soaps and refillable sanitiser bottles, are gaining popularity as consumers become more environmentally conscious.
• Antimicrobial touchpoints: Surfaces in public spaces, such as door handles and lift buttons, are being coated with antimicrobial materials to reduce germ transmission.

The global hand hygiene movement

Hand hygiene is not just a personal practice; it’s a global movement. Organisations like the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continually update guidelines and run campaigns to educate the public. Participating in events like Global Handwashing Day on 15 October 2024 can help raise awareness and encourage good practices worldwide.

Conclusion

Maintaining proper hand hygiene is a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself and others from illness. By staying informed about the latest best practices and innovations, you can make a significant impact on your health and the health of your community. Remember, clean hands save lives!