Back to school: because hand hygiene remains the first line of defence against viruses, bacteria and seasonal infections

Back to school: because hand hygiene remains the first line of defence against viruses, bacteria and seasonal infections 

With the reopening of schools, nurseries, offices and many workplaces after the summer break, there is an increase in the circulation of people in shared spaces and, consequently, a greater risk of the spread of viruses, bacteria and seasonal infections.

Hand hygiene continues to stand out as one of the most effective methods of prevention; it is regarded by the scientific community as one of the simplest and most effective ways of limiting the transmission of numerous pathogens.  

A well-established principle in healthcare settings which is also applied in schools, educational services and all settings with high footfall.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), good hand hygiene can prevent up to 50 per cent of avoidable healthcare-associated infections, confirming the central role of this practice in infection prevention. 

These same principles form the basis of educational campaigns aimed at schools and the general public. (Sources: WHO – "Hand Hygiene”).

Why going back to school increases the risk of infections spreading

The resumption of school and work activities leads to an increase in close contact and in the sharing of spaces, surfaces and materials. 

In these circumstances, it is easier for the micro-organisms responsible for seasonal illnesses such as the following to spread:

• common colds;
• flu;
• viral gastroenteritis;
• respiratory infections.

Children, in particular, are a key group to involve in hygiene education activities, as developing good habits from early childhood helps to reduce the spread of infections, including within families and the wider community.

Hand washing and disinfection: a simple gesture with a big impact

Hands one of the main ways that viruses and bacteria are transmitted. 

For this reason, the WHO recommends washing hands with soap and water when they are visibly dirty, and using alcohol-based hand sanitisers when washing is not immediately possible.

Proper hand hygiene should be observed:

• before eating;
• after using the toilet;
• after coughing or sneezing;
• after coming into contact with shared surfaces;
• upon returning from outside.

The effectiveness of these practices depends not only on how often they are carried out, but also on using the correct washing technique and the time spent washing the hands. (Source: WHO – "Why, How and When Hand Hygiene").

From healthcare facilities to schools: the same principles of prevention

Hand hygiene procedures are one of the key elements in the infection prevention and control programmes implemented by hospitals, clinics and care homes.

Although the level of risk differs from that in healthcare settings, the same principles are also effective in schools, nurseries, canteens and spaces used for educational activities.

Promoting the availability of hand hygiene products and raising awareness amongst pupils, teachers and school staff helps to create safer environments and limit the spread of major seasonal infections. (Source: WHO – "Infection Prevention and Control Programme").

The importance of disposable materials and hygiene products

Alongside good personal hygiene practices, the availability of single-use materials and hygiene products provides further support in prevention.

Easily accessible dispensers, hand sanitiser products and single-use items help to simplify daily procedures and encourage the adoption of good hygiene practices in healthcare settings, as well as in schools and workplaces.

Investing in prevention means reducing the risk of infections spreading and improving public health protection.

Prevention and quality: a commitment that starts with everyday actions

The reopening of schools, nurseries and workplaces each year presents a key opportunity to reinforce good hygiene practices.

Having reliable products, high-quality disposable materials and solutions designed to promote daily hygiene makes it possible to provide practical support for preventative measures in a wide range of settings, from healthcare facilities to educational environments.

Dispotech supports professionals, distributors and industry operators with products designed to meet hygiene and safety requirements, helping to promote a culture of prevention based on quality, practicality and reliability.