The simplest way to prevent swine flu is to wash hands regularly

Wash your hands regularly, and keep swine flu away

Washington: For those wondering how to protect themselves from swine flu, the simplest and the most effective way is to wash hands regularly, say experts. With the increasing concerns over the H1N1 virus spread, governments and health agencies all over the world are making significant attempts to curb the outbreak. It has killed as many as 179 people in Mexico and 1 in the US forcing the World Health Organisation (WHO) to concede that a global flu pandemic is imminent. The Soap and Detergent Association is reminding families that disease prevention is in their hands. "Cleaning your hands with soap and water is simple, safe, effective and inexpensive," said Nancy Bock, SDA Vice President of Education. "When it comes to preventing the spread of the flu, hygiene is your first line of everyday defense. Very simply put, clean hands save lives. "Whether you're using bar soap, liquid soap, or foam soap, just make sure you lather your hands and rub vigorously for at least 20 seconds," she added. For parents' concerned over their children's health in school SDA offers some quick tips for parents to help them stay healthy in school. The parents are advised to make sure that the school has adequate supplies of soap, paper towels and surface cleaning and disinfecting products. It's tough for students to keep their hands clean if bathrooms lack the basics. And make sure there are sufficient and effective cleaning and disinfecting products available for school custodians, who are on the front lines of keeping our schools healthy. Tuck some hand wipes along with your child's packed lunch. Sometimes kids are so rushed during the day, they don't wash their hands before they eat. Hands wipes are useful when kids are on the go. Consider adding a hand sanitizer into your older child's backpack. Convenient, portable sanitizer products are great to have around when soap and water aren't readily available. (Check with your school to make sure students are allowed to carry along a sanitizer.)
-May 2, 2009