Why Handwashing is Crucial for Preventing Infections
Regularly washing your hands is essential in order to prevent the spread of infections. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and warm water both before and after using eye drops or applying eye compresses. Additionally, it is important to wash your hands before and after cleaning any discharge that may have accumulated around the eye, as this helps to prevent the further spread of infection. In cases where soap and water are not readily available, an alternative option is to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Remember to sanitize your hands before and after any treatments for pink eye are administered.
Prevent the Spread of Pink Eye by Washing Everything
If you or someone you know has pink eye, it is important to take precautions to avoid spreading the infection to others. One of the most effective ways to do this is by washing everything that the infected individual may have come into contact with.
Start by washing pillowcases, toys, clothing, washcloths, and towels. These items can harbor bacteria that can easily be transferred to others. Additionally, surfaces in bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas that have been touched by the infected individual should be cleaned thoroughly, as they may contain residual bacteria that can spread the infection.
Another common source of bacterial pink eye infections is makeup. It is advisable to discard any old eye makeup and replace it after recovering from a pink eye infection. Wearing makeup while infected can not only cause the infection to spread but can also lead to further irritation.