It’s one of the most effective way to stop the spread of viruses says report
As the new school terms begins, the need for effective hand hygiene in the midst of the usual winter upsurge of unpleasant illnesses has been reinforced in a recent report on the BBC website.
The article, by health reporter Philippa Roxby, centres on an update from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) as illnesses such as norovirus (the so-called “winter vomiting bug”), flu and chickenpox begin their usual seasonal increase.
The spring term is the one deemed to be the one when youngsters are “most likely” to miss lessons at school. These can “disrupt children’s education and cause more serious illnesses”, according to the UKHSA’s Dr Catherine Falconer.
The report lists five lots of advice that are intended to help keep children (as well as those in the wider community) healthy.
Parents and teachers must teach handwashing
Firstly, and probably most importantly, is the number one recommendation – to make sure that children of all ages know when, why and how to go about the whole hand washing process:-
“Teach good hygiene habits, such as regular hand-washing.”
“It is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of viruses, the experts say, because they can live on our hands.”
Thorough hand washing is also a key element for point number two – to stop the proliferation of stomach bugs.
“If affected, using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will help prevent bugs from spreading (along with washing hands with soap).”
The press release UKHSA reminds parents of back-to-school advice also states
“If your child has a fever and is unwell, they should stay home from school or nursery until the fever has passed and they are well enough to attend.”
Back-to-school illness advice offered to parents »
Hand wash units for younger children – place them wherever they’re needed!
Teal produces portable hand washing sinks that are idea for preschool and nursery children including the KiddiSynk and KiddiWash, which can be used equally effectively indoor or out.
The Teal range of mobile sinks includes the MediWash, Hygienius and Hygienius ProWash, BigSynk, Super Stallette, TEALwash, Handeman Xtra, Compact Classic, HandSpa, CliniWash – and now the new WashStand Xtra.