Mass General Brigham Health Plan’s Post

🧼 Keeping germs at bay: the power of hand washing 🧼 Simple hand washing is becoming increasingly important when it comes to sickness-related absences. Regular and thorough hand washing not only helps to reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria, but also significantly reduces the risk of respiratory and intestinal diseases. By ensuring our hands are clean, we can protect ourselves and others and minimize the number of days missed from work and school. #BlackSatino #Handwashing #PublicHealth #StayHealthy #PreventIllness #HygieneFirst

Washing your hands with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and others from viruses that cause respiratory infections and stomach bugs. Wash your hands regularly with warm, soapy water. Alcohol-based hand gels do not kill the viruses that cause stomach bugs. #BeWinterWise #StomachBug

Global Handwashing Day has been celebrated annually on October 15th to promote handwashing with soap and water as an easy, effective, and affordable way to prevent disease and save lives. When handwashing with soap is practiced at key moments, such as after using the restroom or before eating, it can dramatically reduce the risk of AGE and ARI, which can cause serious illness and death. In short, practicing proper hand hygiene at key moments can save millions of lives annually. Washing your hands is easy and it's one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs.

Providing first aid for burns is crucial to minimise damage, reduce pain, and promote the healing process. First and Second Degree Burns 👇 1️⃣Cool the Burn: Use cool running water or a cold compress for about 10-20 minutes. 2️⃣Protect the Burn: Cover the burn loosely with a sterile, non-stick bandage or clean cloth. Avoid breaking any blisters to prevent infection. Third Degree Burns 👇 White or charred appearance or No sensation of pain due to nerve damage 1️⃣Call for Emergency Help 2️⃣Protect the Burn - Do not use water to cool the burn. Cover the burn area with a sterile, non-stick bandage and elevate the area ❌ Do not apply ice or very cold water to a third-degree burn. ❌ Do not break blisters. ❌ Do not use adhesive bandages directly on the burn. #FirstAid #Burns #FirstAidTips #SafetyFirst #Emergency #HealthandSafety

Today is Global Handwashing Day. Washing your hands with soap and water is one of the simplest, most effective ways to stop the spread of germs and stay healthy. Keeping hands clean can help prevent diarrheal illnesses and respiratory infections, such as the common cold or flu. When washing your hands you should use hot water, lather your hands by rubbing them together, and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, then rinse.

Did you know that proper handwashing can help prevent the spread of common illnesses like the cold and flu, as well as more serious infections? 🦠 Make it a habit to wash your hands regularly, especially before meals, after using the restroom, or when you've been out and about. Clean hands = fewer germs = healthier you! #StayHealthy #HandwashingMatters #GermFree #PharmacyTips #PreventInfections #HealthFirst #FightTheFlu #ColdPrevention #HealthyHabits #StaySafe #WellnessTips #CleanHandsSaveLives #EverydayHealth

Respiratory illnesses often spread through contact with contaminated surfaces and hands. By diligently washing your hands with an effective solution like BactoScrub, you create a formidable barrier against harmful pathogens. Experience the strength of protection with BactoScrub, your ally in the fight against respiratory illnesses. #Bactoscrub #cleanhands #respiratoryillnesses #safecare #protectyourhands

Mosquitos can spread disease and turn a good day into an itchy, uncomfortable one. Learn how to prevent these pests from entering your home - just by repairing damaged window screens. #PestPrevention #SummerSafety #HomeMaintenance https://lmsafe.co/tQ1g

Cholera Outbreak in Nigeria Cholera is an acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. This disease is often linked to inadequate water and sanitation facilities, leading to the consumption of contaminated water or food. Nigeria has experienced several cholera outbreaks over the years, with the most recent significant outbreaks occurring due to a combination of factors including poor sanitation, lack of clean drinking water, and inadequate health infrastructure. Cholera presents a severe public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions where sanitation facilities are minimal, and access to clean water is limited. During outbreaks, thousands of people can be affected, with a significant number of deaths occurring if swift measures are not taken. These outbreaks put additional strain on Nigeria's already challenged healthcare system, requiring rapid response to contain the spread and treat the infected. What is Cholera? Cholera is characterized by sudden onset of severe diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and, in extreme cases, death if not treated promptly. The symptoms of cholera can be mild or asymptomatic in some individuals, but in severe cases, the rapid loss of fluids can lead to shock and death within hours. The infection is contracted by ingesting contaminated food or water, and it can spread rapidly in areas with poor sanitation and inadequate water treatment facilities. Treatment of Cholera The primary treatment for cholera is rehydration. This can be administered orally with Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) or intravenously in more severe cases. ORS is a simple mixture of water, salt, and sugar that can be prepared and administered easily. For severe dehydration, intravenous fluids are required. Antibiotics can also be used to reduce the duration of the illness and the severity of symptoms, but rehydration remains the cornerstone of cholera treatment. Early and effective treatment can significantly reduce the mortality rate associated with cholera. Prevention of Cholera Preventing cholera involves several key strategies aimed at improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Ensuring access to safe drinking water and improving sanitation facilities are critical steps. Communities need to be educated on the importance of handwashing with soap, especially before handling food and after using the toilet. Proper disposal of human waste and the safe preparation of food are also vital measures. In addition, oral cholera vaccines are available and can provide short-term protection, particularly in areas at high risk of outbreaks. In conclusion, combating cholera in Nigeria requires a multi-faceted approach, including immediate medical response to outbreaks and long-term investments in water and sanitation infrastructure. Public health education and community engagement are also essential to promote hygiene practices and prevent the spread of the disease.

Feeling under the weather? The best way to protect your family and friends this winter is by staying home when you’re sick. This simple step can prevent the spread of flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses. For more information, visit 💻 https://lnkd.in/gkbQFtbS #COVID19 #RespiratoryViruses #AustralianCDC #CDC