How do we get infections?

To avoid infections, we need to understand when and where there is a potential for germs to spread. Here are a few ways to know how germs enter our body:

1. By inhaling small particles of dust and water droplets into the respiratory tract via the nose and the mouth.
   
   
   
2. Through the ingestion of contaminated food and water. 
   
   
   
3. Inoculation via injury, injection, bites and wounds to the skin and mucous membranes. 
   
   
   
4. Sexual contact between partners. 
   
    

Despite the above, many infections are also spread by indirect contact. Germs can even be transferred from a contaminated item i.e. cutting board, door handle, TV remote, etc. 

Who is most at risk?

 

In most healthy people, infections are short-lived, if treated suitably. However, in individuals whose immune systems are vulnerable, infections can have severe consequences. These susceptible people include:

 

• Babies and children under the age of five with an immune system that is still developing
  
  
  
• Elderly with a deteriorating immune system
  
  
  
• Those who are ill with a weakened immune system

Ways to reduce your risk

 

We can't make a complete germ-free environment, but to keep our families healthy, we must reduce the risk of infection. Here's how to prevent sickness before it starts:

 

• Washing removes some germs, but you must wipe and scrub the item to loosen the dirt and germs. It’s the most suitable way to decontaminate items i.e. cutlery, pots, pans, and your hands.
  
  
  
• Heating reduces the number of germs in food; the higher the temperature, the more germs are killed.
  
  
  
• Cleansing is an ideal way to remove germs on surfaces, i.e. kitchen counters and sinks, with Lizol Kitchen Power Cleaner and toilets/bathrooms with Lizol Bathroom Power Cleaner.
  
  
  
• Germs love moisture. It's essential to dry and clean clothes, towels and mops.

Always remember to:

 

• Washing removes some germs, but you must wipe and scrub the item to loosen the dirt and germs. It’s the most suitable way to decontaminate items i.e. cutlery, pots, pans, and your hands.
  
  
  
• Heating reduces the number of germs in food; the higher the temperature, the more germs are killed.
  
  
  
• Cleansing is an ideal way to remove germs on surfaces, i.e. kitchen counters and sinks, with Lizol Kitchen Power Cleaner and toilets/bathrooms with Lizol Bathroom Power Cleaner.
  
  
  
• Germs love moisture. It's essential to dry and clean clothes, towels and mops.