Health experts at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services say hand washing is the most important guard against spreading infectious diseases. Proper hand washing technique could stave off the spread of communicable diseases for both adults and children. From restaurant workers to rest room etiquette to family and friends at home, simple hand washing is one way to keep your germs to yourself.
Fecal-Oral Transmission
Hand washing after restroom use can help stop the spread of fecal-oral transmission of diseases. This type of transmission affects salmonella, hepatitis A, giardiasis (sometimes called "beaver fever") and other bacteria-borne diseases. Since the smallest of fecal particles can spread the disease, hand washing is paramount.
Indirect Respiratory Diseases
Microorganisms can be indirectly spread from respiratory disease through the hands. Influenza, streptococcus and the common cold can all be kept from transmission by careful hand washing.
Secondary Liquid Transmission
Many diseases can be transmitted by hand touching even though the primary transmission is through urine, mucus or saliva. Diseases transmitted secondarily, which can be stopped from spreading through proper hand washing, include typhus, staphylococcal organisms and the Epstein-Barr virus.
