Top 10 ways to prevent infection in the New Year

The new year always marks the start of new beginnings and opportunities to achieve specific goals. However, with each new year, we are also introduced to unique infections that can easily wreak havoc in our daily life. 

Only with proper cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitization solutions, such as Dettol Pro Solution, can we prevent getting infected in the new year. However, various practical ways can help you stay infection-free beyond the obvious cleaning and disinfecting solutions. 

Top 10 ways to prevent infection in the new year 

  • Frequently wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap or liquid hand wash for 20 seconds. Germs, bacteria, and deadly microorganisms can stay alive for a few months. The CDC recommends washing hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap or liquid hand wash and water. Without running water, an alcohol-based hand gel or wipe will suffice. 
  • We were taught to share our toys in kindergarten, but remember not to share your personal belongings/things with anyone to prevent spreading infections. For example, personal belongings such as toothbrushes, towels, razors, handkerchiefs, and nail clippers can all be sources of infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, and fungi), therefore, should not be shared with others.
  • Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing with either tissue, towel, or crevice of your elbow. You might be wondering which is this important if you aren’t sick. Well, for most infections, the disease-causing microorganisms grow and multiply before any symptoms show.  Coughing or sneezing can spread these germs through microscopic droplets in the air. Therefore, the current recommendation is to cover your mouth with your arm, sleeve, or elbow crevice rather than using your hands.
  • Our bodies are designed to have a memory of previous infections. Therefore, once your body encounters a microbe that has previously caused disease, it enhances its production of white blood cells and antibodies to prevent the same infection a second time. However, getting vaccinated tricks your body into thinking it has been infected by a virus, enhancing your immune system’s defenses against it. 
  • Adopt healthy and hygienic food and cooking practices. Unfortunately, foodborne illnesses frequently occur from poor and unhygienic food practices. Refrigerate food within 2 hours of preparation, use separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables, keep your kitchen countertops clean and disinfected, and wash your hands before and after preparing and consuming food. 
  • Stay vigilant while traveling. Infectious diseases are easily transmitted to people while traveling, especially when traveling within undeveloped countries. If your travel destination is one where water is questionable, ensure to use a safe water source such as bottled water for drinking and cooking. Eat foods that have been cooked, and avoid raw vegetables and fruits. Finally, update all immunizations advised or required for your travel destination. 
  • Sexually-transmitted diseases are probably the most easily preventable infectious disease. By being smart about safe sex (using condoms), the transfer of infectious bacteria or viruses from one person to another can be prevented.
  • Don’t pick your nose, as it is a social taboo and a prime reason for spreading infections. In addition, microorganisms prefer a warm, moist environment inside your nose. Not picking your nose will prevent these microbes from entering your body and making you ill. 
  • Exercise extreme caution with pets. If you have pets, ensure they get regular check-ups and that their vaccinations are up to date. In addition, clean their litter boxes regularly, and keep small children away from them, so they do not catch any infection. Furthermore, teach your children to always wash their hands before and after handling pets.
  • Stay up to date with the latest happenings. Watch the news and keep a good understanding of The current events that can help you make informed decisions about traveling or other recreational activities. For example, a bird flu outbreak in Asia may make you think twice about a planned trip. 

Summary:


Our skin acts as a natural barrier against harmful microorganisms that cause infections. But, many microbes have found alternate methods to get into our bodies. But, with just a few simple behavioral changes, you can easily prevent the spreading of many infectious diseases. 

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