Prevent Infection With These 5 Tips
By Brandi Goodman
Infections are incredibly easy to get. Whether you've had a recent surgery and are now susceptible to an infection of your wound, or you've become ill and are afraid of a related infection taking over, there are methods for preventing these from happening. Prevent infection with the following five tips and keep yourself as healthy and well as possible.
Wash Your Hands Often
Avoid getting sick in general by washing your hands often. You need to lather up the soap and cover the front and back of each hand, washing for a good 20 seconds at least. Then rinse thoroughly under the water. Germs are on every surface, and keeping your hands clean can prevent you from spreading them.
Keep All Wounds Clean and Covered
Infection is easily spread when you leave a wound or cut open and unclean. If you want to avoid bacteria setting in, make sure to clean any and all cuts -- no matter how small. You should then bandage them properly to prevent dirt and debris from getting inside the open sore.
Do Not Eat After Others
If someone else just drank from a glass, do not use the same one. When someone uses a fork or spoon to take a bite from a dish, get a different eating utensil for your share. Eating after others can get you sick if they are currently experiencing any sickness symptoms. It is also wise to avoid touching another person's used napkin, tissues, glasses, or dishes that they have touched.
Follow Food Safety Guidelines
The food you eat can cause illness. You need to be sure you always follow all food safety guidelines so bacteria does not have the chance to spread. Rinse your meat, fruit, and vegetables under water before cooking. Wash your hands after handling them. Cook foods thoroughly to the correct temperature. Store foods safely away from one another and tightly covered while in the fridge.
Use Insect Repellent
Insects are yet another method of infection spread. Use insect repellent if you're going to be outdoors and try to avoid bugs as much as possible. Avoid traveling to infected areas where there are known cases of insect-related disease, such as the Zika Virus. Mosquitoes are one of the biggest problems and need to be monitored closely.
Preventing infection isn't always possible, but it is a strong possibility that you will avoid serious complications if you're taking care of yourself. Do what you can to keep your body healthy and protected so infections do not take over and cause serious strife in your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Cary, N.C.