The New York Times has an interesting feature on its site where they debunk health myths. I thought this was timely considering all of the interest around the h1n1 flu and the regular ol' seasonal flu. Their latest: "The Claim: Always Wash Your Hands With Hot Water, Not Cold" bucks traditional wisdom about washing our hands with hot water to help wash off the nasties. For details on why visit the link below:
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/13/health/13real.html?_r=1
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I also learned, too, that the temperature of the water does not matter...but we should wash our hands vigorously with soap for as long as it takes to sing the happy birthday song, twice to get the bacteria off our hands.
thanks for the share!
October 25, 2009 - 6:43pmThis Comment
Hi Tina,
I read that article too. There is also a link on the side of the article on comments from readers. The bottom line is people just don't wash enough hot or cold water and sometimes they don't even use soap which is what is going to get the bad bugs off your skin. The prevailing thought is that people in general are less likely to wash their hands or wash them long enough unless the water is warm. It is the scrubbing that removes bacteria loosened by soap for enough minutes to matter, not the temperature of the water. Hand gel santizers are a great back up, but is best to wash with soap and water when you can.
October 25, 2009 - 6:28pmThis Comment
Hi Tina - I too have heard that hot water is better than cold, but know that studies have shown either hot or cold water will remove bacteria and reduce the spread of infection. Personally I like the gel hand sanitizers. Several companies are now distributing these to their employees to keep on their desks and use as a preventive measure against the flu. The small bottles are great for carrying in a purse or pocket. It's a small thing to do that could make a major difference. Pat
October 14, 2009 - 5:13pmThis Comment