In many ways, the return of school children to the classroom kicks off the unofficial start to the cold and flu season. While there are many variables unrelated to reading, writing and arithmetic, the gathering of so many little ones indoors is a factor in the transmission of viral illness.
I find that back-to-school time is an important time for a review of good hygiene practices to reduce the spread of common infectious illnesses.
For starters, when little Johnny packs his backpack, be sure to include a packet of clean tissues and some hand sanitizer. Staying well-equipped can reduce the need to rely on the unhygienic practice and undesired consequences of the – shall we say – “pick and flick” phenomenon otherwise common among the younger elementary students.
Remember that respiratory viruses are transmitted through the mucus secretions of the eyes, nose, mouth and lungs. Keeping this in mind and teaching it to little Mary can reduce the amount of transmissible infectious material in the classroom and in the house.
We all should minimize touching the face, especially when ill. When necessary (such as when using a tissue to blow your nose), proper hand decontamination should follow.
Contrary to the belief of some, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be quite effective at reducing the spread of common viral illnesses. In fact, they are stocked liberally in hospitals and physician offices for this reason.
As a general rule, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can effectively decontaminate hand surfaces provided that all surfaces of the hands are covered. However, there is no substitute to thorough hand-washing when hands are obviously soiled (such as after a sneeze into the hand). Similarly, hand-washing should be routine practice after toilet use.
Proper hand-washing technique involves use of soap, warm water and adequate time to cover all surfaces of the hands for about 30 seconds. Surfaces under the nails should be also cleaned.
If your child likes the “squirt and rinse” approach to hand washing, consider teaching him to sing the birthday song (all the way through) two times while washing. For the aspiring vocalist, a rendition of “Don’t Cry For Me, Argentina” from the Broadway musical “Evita” is also quite effective for this purpose.
As a general rule, the concept of respiratory secretions used as a projectile ranks right up there with bioterrorism. Therefore, doing your part by properly covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing will be greatly appreciated by your classmates.
There are a couple of options. If you choose to use a clean tissue to cover a cough or sneeze, then don’t forget the necessary next step of proper hand decontamination. Alternately, you may use your sleeve or elbow, in which case decontamination is only necessary before performing the chicken dance in close quarters.
If we all do our part to reduce the spread of infectious illness through proper hygiene practices, we can make this school year a healthier experience.
Dr. Matthew A. Clark is a board-certified physician in internal medicine and pediatrics practicing at the Ute Mountain Ute Health Center in Towaoc.
