Health & Wellness

The article looks at several misconceptions about hand washing. It includes the belief that hot water cleans the hands better, that hand sanitizers are better than soap and water, that a rinse-off is fine if the hands are not dirty, that bar soap hosts germs, and that air dryers are healthier than paper towels. Studies related to the topic are cited, along with comments from microbiologist Donald Schaffner, epidemiologist David Berendes, and infectious disease personnel Thomas Murray.

The article discusses the types of nanoscopic viruses which affect the human body such as Rhinovirus, Influenza virus, Norovirus, and suggests ways to avoid them. Topics include Rhinovirus causing the common cold, Norovirus causing the stomach flu, Influenza virus causing the flu, and use of hand sanitizer and hand wipes.