As the Covid-19 pandemic sweeps across the globe, people share a common concern about infection. There is so much that is still unknown about how this virus spreads, who is the most susceptible and how contagious it can be. 

Scientists and governments are working hard in cooperation to learn more about how to protect populations from Calcutta to New York. The common threat is that anyone can become infected with Coronavirus if the proper protective measures are not taken. 

The most obvious prevention method is keeping your distance from others. Although you will want to avoid anyone that is currently sick, the fact that many carriers of this virus show no symptoms at all can be difficult to navigate. Most countries have instituted strict “stay at home” and “social distancing” guidelines to help slow the spread and keep people safe. 

However, it’s up to you to adopt proactive sanitization and cleaning habits to reduce your risk of becoming infected with Covid-19. This virus is spread via person-to-person contact. This means that any bacteria that you get on your hands can easily be transferred into your nose, eyes or mouth by simply touching your face. 

This makes keeping your hands clean a top priority. By using high-alcohol content hand sanitizer, vigorously washing your hands regularly and following some of the following tips, you can keep your hands clean and your risk low during the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Hand Washing

Every surface that you touch has the potential to hold Coronavirus bacteria. Washing your hands often is one of your best means of defense against infection. You should be washing your hands with warm water and anti-bacterial soap several times a day when you are out in public. 

When you wash your hands you need to scrub every inch of your skin including your wrists and your nail beds. It is recommended by the CDC that you wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds to ensure a thorough cleaning.

Hand Sanitizer

As life moves forward, you may not be able to immediately wash your hands after coming in contact with possibly infected surfaces. In these cases, you can use a high-alcohol hand sanitizer to kill any transferred bacteria until you can wash your hands thoroughly. Hand sanitizer that contains at least 62% alcohol should be used to kill any bacteria. It’s important to use your hand sanitizer before you remove your mask.

Gloves

Some experts say that it’s not essential to wear gloves if you are washing your hands regularly. However, if you are in regular contact with the public or are in a situation where you may be touching many public surfaces, it’s a good idea to have a pair of gloves handy. When you are finished, remove your gloves before you remove your mask.

Disinfecting

The Coronavirus pandemic has made us shockingly aware of how many foreign surfaces we touch on a daily basis. To avoid infection, you should be using an anti-bacterial or bleach solution to clean the high traffic areas of your home several times a day. This should include all door and cupboard handles, your tv remote, your smartphone, and other devices, faucets and counters.

Skin Care

While you remain vigilant with sanitization and hand washing, your skin can become very dry and cracked. After cleansing, you should use a regular moisturizer to help rejuvenate your skin. Dry, chapped skin can allow bacteria to enter your body easily and should be avoided.

As we all learn how to navigate the “new normal” of living through a pandemic the most important aspect is personal safety. Following these tips on keeping your hands clean can help you and your family to stay safe from infection.