Take care of your body. It is the only place you have to live.
Germs are everywhere, and they can make us sick. According to the World Health Organization, infectious diseases cause millions of deaths worldwide every year. But the good news is that many of these illnesses can be prevented by following simple habits and practices. As Dr. Margaret Chan, former Director-General of the World Health Organization, said, “Prevention is the best medicine.” By taking proactive steps to prevent the spread of germs, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of catching germs and infections.
Germs are tiny microorganisms that are all around us, on every surface, including our own bodies. While most germs don’t cause harm, some can sneak past our immune system’s defenses and make us sick. But by understanding how germs work we can take simple steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from getting sick.
“The doctor of the future will give no medicine, but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.” – Thomas Edison
Types of Infectious agents
| Infectious Agent | Description | Characteristics | Examples of Diseases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacteria | One-celled organisms that can be seen only with a microscope. Some are beneficial, while others are harmful and cause illness. | Can produce toxins Some are helpful Can damage tissues | Strep throat Tuberculosis UTIs |
| Viruses | Much smaller than cells, viruses invade host cells to reproduce and often destroy the host cells in the process. | Encapsulated genetic material Require host cells to reproduce | Common cold Influenza COVID-19 |
| Fungi | Includes molds, yeast, and mushrooms. Some are edible, while others can cause infections, especially in those with weakened immune systems. | Diverse group Some are beneficial and edible Can cause infections | Thrush Athlete’s foot Ringworm |
| Protozoans | Single celled organisms that often live in water, soil or food. Some are harmless, while others cause diseases and often have complex life cycles. | Single-celled Some live outside hosts Enter body via food, water or insect bites | Giardiasis Malaria Toxoplasmosis |
| Helminths | Larger parasites, commonly known as worms, that live off the body’s nutrients and can settle in various organs including intestines, lungs, and brain. | Larger than other infectious agents Include worms Live off host nutrients | Tapeworms Roundworms |
This table provides a clear and concise overview of different infectious agents, their unique characteristics, and examples of diseases they cause.
Warding Off Germs and Infection: 6 Simple yet Effective Ways
Stay Away from People Who Are Sick
If someone is sick, it is best to avoid close contact with them. This is because germs can spread easily from person to person especially when they cough, sneeze or talk. Here are some tips to maintain a safe distance:
Stay at least 6 feet away from sick individuals
Avoid crowded places, especially during flu season
Don’t share personal items like utensils, towels or bedding with sick individuals
Cover Coughs and Sneezes
Coughs and sneezes can spread germs far and wide, so it’s crucial to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your elbow, rather than your hands, to prevent the spread of germs.
When you cough or sneeze, germs can spread easily to others. To prevent this, cover your mouth and nose with:
A tissue (throw it away after use)
Your elbow (not your hands)
This simple habit can help stop the spread of germs.
Don’t Touch Your Face
Germs can easily enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth, so try to avoid touching your face as much as possible. This is especially important after coming into contact with someone who is sick or after touching surfaces that may be contaminated with germs.
Avoid touching your face, especially after being in public
Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating
Stay Home if You’re Sick
If you’re feeling unwell, it is best to stay home and rest and do not risk the spread of germs to others. This will not only help prevent the spread of infection but also give your body the time it needs to recover.stay home from work or school to:
Prevent spreading germs to others
Rest and recover in a comfortable environment
This will help you get better faster and avoid infecting others.
Clean and Disinfect Surfaces
Germs can survive on surfaces for hours, even days, so it’s essential to regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that are touched often, such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.Germs can survive on surfaces for a long time. To keep them away:
Clean surfaces regularly with soap and water
Disinfect high touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops
This will help reduce the spread of germs and keep you healthy.
Handle Food and Water Safely
Food and water can be a breeding ground for germs, so it’s crucial to handle and store them safely. Avoid consuming food that has been left at room temperature for too long, and make sure to wash your hands before handling food. Also, avoid drinking water that may be contaminated with germs
Wash your hands before handling food
Store food and water in clean, covered containers
Avoid consuming expired or spoiled food and water
Protect Yourself from Infections
Hand Washing: Your Best Defense
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to keep germs away. Do this:
Before eating or preparing food
After coughing or sneezing
After changing a diaper
After using the toilet
If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Vaccines: Your Shield Against Disease
Vaccines are the best way to prevent certain diseases. They are especially important for:
Children, to protect them from many diseases
Adults, to prevent illnesses like tetanus, flu and COVID-19
Medicines: Extra Protection
Some medicines can protect you from certain germs for a short time. For example, taking an anti-parasitic medicine can prevent malaria if you are traveling to a high risk area.
By following these simple tips, you can reduce your risk of getting infected and stay healthy.
Conclusion
Germs are everywhere but by applying simple habits and practices, we can significantly reduce our risk of catching germs and infections. Remember, prevention is the best medicine. By staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, not touching our face, staying home if we are sick, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and handling food and water safely, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from getting sick.
Additionally, hand washing, vaccines, and medicines can provide extra protection against germs and infections. By taking these simple steps, we can stay healthy and avoid getting sick.
