With all the people nowadays, the disease can be passed from one person to another. Handwashing is crucial as it prevents the transmission of bacteria and other pathogenic organisms, reducing illness. Many people might not know this, and only 5% wash their hands properly after going to the toilet. It is essential to comply with proper handwashing to lower the risk of acquiring a disease. Studies have shown that using disinfectant foam on hands before cleaning has a stunning impact on disease transmission.
Reasons Why You Should Wash Your Hands Properly After Going To The Toilet
- Infectious Diseases
Most diseases, such as H1N1, Ebola, and MERS, are transmitted from contact with infected patients. Handwashing can minimize the spread of such dangerous conditions. It is also a significant cause of diarrhea and can spread quickly in closed environments. Proper hand washing, particularly after going to the toilet, prevents diarrhea. - Viruses
Viruses can also be transmitted by touching contaminated household objects such as door handles and taps. These viruses may enter the body through wounds or pores on our skin; hence washing hands with soap and water is crucial. - Bacteria
Most of us have a slight misconception that bacteria are needed for the body to function correctly. Bacteria can cause illnesses, especially in moist environments or when the population is high. Bacterial skin infections are popularly associated with diseases such as pneumonia and tuberculosis due to promiscuity and unwashed hands. Washing our hands keeps us healthy by preventing the spread of bacteria from infected people to healthy people. - Food Poisoning
Food poisoning can occur when we eat food that a dirty person has handled. This bacteria can be transmitted if we touch our mouths after taking the food. Hence, before heading any food or utensils, it is essential to wash your hands to prevent food poisoning. - Safety
It is a common misconception that you don’t have to wash your hands after going to the toilet. It is because your hands have been in contact with feces, leading to many people not washing their hands. Sometimes, the bathroom can be unsanitary, and washing your hands with soap and water is essential to prevent harmful diseases. - Germs
Germs are everywhere, and they can arise in the most unlikely places. They can even come from animals, pets, insects, and plants. When these germs are transferred to us, they cause an illness. Hence, washing hands with soap and water is essential, so we do not get infected by germs.
Ways of Washing Your Hands Properly After Going To The Toilet
- Use warm water
The first step to washing your hands with soap is getting warm, running water. It will prevent the spread of germs and make you feel more comfortable. - Apply the soap thoroughly
Before you begin washing your hands:
Squeeze the soap in between your palms.
Apply it to all areas of your hands, including under the nails.
Do not skip any sites while washing. - Scrub The Soap
Make sure to rub between the fingers and scrub gently over hard-to-reach areas. It will prevent you from getting infections such as athlete’s foot. - Rinse The Soap Off
After scrubbing the soap on your hands, make sure to rinse off all the soap thoroughly. Doing so will ensure that you do not get soapy water in your mouth and causes harm to your mouth. - Brush Your Fingers
Once you have rinsed off all the soap, it is time to brush your fingers with a clean cloth or paper. It will ensure that you get rid of all the germs and bacteria on your hands, which might have spread from your fingers to other areas. - Dry
After washing your hands thoroughly, dry them with a clean towel. It will prevent bacteria from spreading from your hands to any other surfaces.
Although handwashing is a simple practice and might seem silly to others, the truth is that washing hands after going to the toilet can prevent many diseases. It is essential to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating, encouraging overall hygiene. Remember, small steps like this are crucial in preventing diseases.