HYGENE IS KEY TO PREVENT ILLNESSES

The experts emphasized the importance of hygiene in preventing illnesses such as colds and flu which are frequently observed at the turn of the season. Prof. Dr. İlgi Şemin, Director of IUE Vocational School of Health Services, pointed out that the most efficient way to prevent cold and flu was to wash hands.  

Prof. Dr. İlgi Şemin stated that the humans spent majority of their resources on struggle against germs and treatment of infectious diseases. “Protecting from germs that are not visible to the human eye is cost efficient than fighting against them.  Getting our children familiar with these habits contributes to the country’s economy via fewer expenses in health on one hand, and on the other hand, protecting individuals’ health improves the society’s health,” said Şemin.  

Miracle of Soap and Water

The most efficient way to prevent cold and flu was to wash hands; stated Prof. Dr. Şemin and she said that washing hands with water and soap would get rid of germs easily. She said that parents especially needed to remind their children about washing their hands with soap and water frequently. Prof. Dr. Şemin made the following recommendations:

“Children need to be taught the habit of washing their hands immediately after they arrive at home. They should not rub their eyes with their hands; they should use tissues when they are coughing or sneezing and throw away immediately. If no tissues are available, they should cough or sneeze into their arms. They should stay away from sick people. Teachers should also encourage these healthy habits at schools. Keeping a sick child at home is also important in terms of preventing the spread of the diseases and protecting other children.”