Bacteria can be found everywhere, on every surface, including in and on our bodies. Some bacteria may prove to be very dangerous, such as those causing food poisoning or flesh-eating strep infections. Many forms of bacteria are responsible for serious disease and even death. Stopping the growth of bacteria with simple procedures, which you can accomplish at home, is key to staying healthy, warns the National Digestive Disease Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC).
Step 1
Use bottled hand sanitizers and wipes. Both are infused primarily with an alcohol-based compound that kills the bacteria and prevents its spread.
Step 2
Wash hands often, as suggested by the NDDIC. Prevent cross-contamination and the propagation of bacteria by keeping your hands clean.
Step 3
Wash all surfaces thoroughly with hot, soapy water or disinfectant wipes infused with alcohol. Focus on the areas in your kitchen where raw meat and poultry are prepared.
Step 4
Heat food thoroughly during cooking. Heating destroys all bacteria, explains the NDDIC. Cover leftovers right away and place in the refrigerator to stop bacterial growth.
Step 5
Limit moisture, humidity and dampness in your home. Bacteria like wet, dark, moist places and will die off in the dryness. Keep a good airflow in places that collect moisture.
Step 6
Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms like basements. Remove standing water from sinks, swimming pools and birdbaths to prevent bacteria from colonizing and growing.
Step 7
Buy a special cutting board for preparing animal products only. This will help to avoid cross-contamination.
Step 8
Ask your doctor for antibiotics, if you are ill with a bacterial infection. Antibiotics require a prescription.
Step 9
Eat fresh garlic, if you like using natural products. Garlic acts as an antibiotic on the body. It has antibacterial qualities in its active ingredient, allicin, according to O. Peter Snyder of the Hospitality Institute of Technology and Management. Raw garlic is best, but you can purchase odorless garlic capsules at health food stores.
Tips and Warnings
- Suggest to a teacher that he keep antibacterial soap available, at work and play stations in the classroom.
- The information offered here is for educational purposes, and not meant to replace medical advice.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Hand sanitizer
- Dehumidifier
- Disinfecting wipes
- Antibiotics
- Garlic
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