Hand disinfection is particularly important in autumn, as the typical cold and flu viruses are more prevalent at this time of year. As temperatures drop and people spend more time indoors, the risk of infection via shared surfaces or direct contact increases. Here are a few reasons why hand sanitising is now very important.
1. Higher risk of infection due to increased contact
As we spend more time indoors in autumn and more people are indoors, the risk of infection through skin and surface contact increases. Hand sanitising reduces the risk of passing on viruses and bacteria or entering the body via the hands.
2. Effective protection against seasonal viruses and bacteria
Disinfecting your hands kills germs more efficiently than simply washing your hands, especially if your hands are not visibly dirty. Cold, flu and noroviruses, which spread in autumn, can be quickly and effectively inactivated with suitable alcohol-based disinfectants.
3. Supplement to hand washing when options are limited
Hand sanitising is particularly practical when you are out and about and no washbasin is available. In public transport, supermarkets and other places where many people come together, quick disinfection is the ideal supplement to hand hygiene and protects against contact infections.
4. COVID-19 prevention and other infections
Even though the coronavirus is mainly transmitted by aerosols, it can get onto the face and mucous membranes via contaminated surfaces and hands. Especially in autumn, when the flu and cold waves begin, hand disinfection helps to protect against both COVID-19 and seasonal viruses.
5. Protection for immunocompromised people and children
Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to infections. Regular hand disinfection can serve as an additional protective measure to reduce the risk of disease transmission, especially in households and communal facilities.
Tips for effective hand disinfection
- Alcohol-based sanitisers: Look for a product with at least 60% alcohol to ensure high effectiveness against viruses and bacteria.
- Correct application: Wet hands generously with sanitiser and rub thoroughly for at least 30 seconds, taking into account the spaces between fingers, back of hands and thumbs.
- Supplement, not substitute: Hand sanitiser is a good addition to regular hand washing, but does not replace it in all situations, especially when hands are visibly dirty.
Conclusion
In autumn, hand disinfection helps to break chains of infection by quickly and effectively inactivating a large number of pathogens. This protects both your own health and that of others and is a valuable part of personal hygiene measures during the cold season.
DrDeppe products for hand disinfection and DrDeppe Products for skin care and cosmetics
