How to protect ourselves from germs

Hygiene means cleanliness for the purpose of preventing disease, and maintaining good hygiene is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and others from illness.

Colds and diarrhoea make up most of the infections we catch, and they come from bacteria and viruses. Because they are common in public places and at home from members of our family, they are passed to us by touch or by droplets, and we can catch illnesses when dirty hands are brought to the mouth.

Infections are passed on by touching surfaces or by being close to sick people. It is important to keep hands as clean as possible, especially around food.

Where most germs and viruses are found:

Toilets, tap handles, door handles, telephone receivers, tables, computer mice and keyboards, animals, sick people and people without symptoms of illness.

The most important ways to prevent infections and their spread:

• Handwashing is the best way to protect ourselves from many infectious diseases. Wash your hands before eating or preparing food, after using the toilet, smoking, touching animals, gardening or handling items soiled with blood or other body fluids.
• A mask over the nose and mouth.
• A face shield when in contact with secretions.
• A daily shower.
• Brushing teeth twice a day.
• Trimming nails.
• Sanitising hands with alcohol gel in public places.
• Avoiding scratching the nose, eyes and mouth when hands are not clean.
• Thorough cleaning of the surroundings.
• Keeping the surroundings clean at home and at work.
• Covering the mouth with a hand when sneezing.
• Staying at home when ill so as not to infect others.

It is very important for people with a weakened immune system to avoid, during the coronavirus pandemic, being in crowds or with people who are not first-degree relatives.

Your health matters to us