Last Updated Jan 2013
According to The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, 47 states are experiencing the worst flu season in history. In fact, Boston has declared a public health emergency as death toll rises. With the current flu outbreak, it is our responsibility to take good care of our respiratory health and prevent ourselves from getting affected by the flu. What can we do to stop colds from spreading?
Many studies have proven that keeping your hands clean using hand sanitizers is an important step to avoid the spread of germs which causes flus, colds, gastrointestinal disorders and stomach upsets. Washing your hands with soap and water is definitely a good practice, however, many people, especially young children, do not practice rubbing their hands properly.
Alcohol based hand sanitizers are said to be effective at killing microorganisms but if you are one of those who has sensitive skin, it can irritate you if used too often. Hand sanitizers without any alcohol content have been shown to be as effective. A study was published in the journal Family Medicine in 2000 [Family Medicine, 2000, 32(9):633-8, by Dr. Dyer, et al at Woodward Laboratories], stating that it improves children's school attendance.
Keeping everyone's respiratory health in mind, the market offers us a huge selection of hand sanitizers but its effectivity is not necessarily on the product itself. It still depends on how you wash your hands and sanitize them.
When deciding on which antibacterial soap to use, be aware about an ingredient called triclosan, this can be toxic. All soaps that are labeled as "antibacterial" doesn't automatically mean that they are effective. Again, the effectiveness relies on the proper way of washing your hands, making use of friction and rubbing those hands together with soap.
The following hand sanitizer products includes ingredients that contribute in maintaining good respiratory health:
- CleanWell: Contains antimicrobial essential oils like oil of thyme.
- Clean George: Contains essential oils like tea tree, manuka, lavender, thyme, rosemary, jasmine, basil, oregano and tuberose which gives a moisturizing effect.
- For My Kids All-Natural Hand Wash: Good for children which contains essential oils and other oils.
In times like this, be sensitive on what you touch and where you go. Do everything you can to reduce your chances of catching a virus. Maintain good health and prevent respiratory illness.
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