Handwashing. It is estimated that washing hands with soap and water could reduce diarrheal disease-associated deaths by up to 50% 1. Researchers in London estimate that if everyone routinely washed their hands, a million deaths a year could be prevented 2.

Lister successfully introduced carbolic acid (now known as phenol) to sterilise surgical instruments and to clean wounds. Lister’s work led to a reduction in post-operative infections and made surgery safer for patients, distinguishing him as the “father of modern surgery”.

Basic forms of germ theory were proposed in the late Middle Ages by physicians including Ibn Sina in 1025, Ibn Khatima and Ibn al-Khatib in the 14th century, Girolamo Fracastoro in 1546, and expanded upon by Marcus von Plenciz in 1762.

Apply a dime sized amount of waterless hand sanitizer to the palm of one hand or use a waterless hand sanitizer wipe. Rub hands together covering all surfaces of hands and fingers. Rub until waterless hand sanitizer is absorbed.

The most important way to reduce the spread of infections is hand washing – frequently wash hands with soap and water, if unavailable use alcohol-based hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol). Also important is to get a vaccine for those infections and viruses that have one, when available.

Good hygiene: the primary way to prevent infections The first line of defense is to keep germs at bay by following good personal hygiene habits. Prevent infection before it begins and avoid spreading it to others with these easy measures.

Learn these healthy habits to protect yourself from disease and prevent germs and infectious diseases from spreading.

1. Handle & Prepare Food Safely.
2. Wash Hands Often.
3. Clean & Disinfect Commonly Used Surfaces.
4. Cough & Sneeze Into Your Sleeve.
5. Don’t Share Personal Items.
6. Get Vaccinated.
7. Avoid Touching Wild Animals.

How You Can Prevent Chronic Diseases

• Eat Healthy. Eating healthy helps prevent, delay, and manage heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic diseases.
• Get Regular Physical Activity.
• Avoid Drinking Too Much Alcohol.
• Get Screened.
• Get Enough Sleep.

Not getting enough physical activity can lead to heart disease—even for people who have no other risk factors. It can also increase the likelihood of developing other heart disease risk factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.