For the third straight year, Canada topped the charts when asked about the importance of infection prevention in an international survey.
Ninety per cent of Canadians believe washing hands regularly is the most effective way to help protect against catching the flu - more than any other country
surveyed and well ahead of Germany which ranked second with 66 per
cent.
However, Canadians don't walk the talk. Less than 40 per cent of Canadians claim their children always wash their hands before eating and 44 per cent said they did so most of the time. Malaysia reported 80 per cent of children washed their hands before eating. In India, the percentage was 79 per cent and in Italy, 76 per cent.
If Canadian children are not following simple handwashing basics, consider what other health and hygiene practices may be neglected. As cold and flu season approaches, Canadians need to be aware of the health threats that can impact their families and how they can protect themselves.
To that end, the Health and Hygiene Council of Canada will revisit current hygiene practices, identify health and hygiene gaps across the country, make
recommendations to the public and identify programs to help fill the gaps. The council is chaired by Dr. Donald Low, chief microbiologist at Mount Sinai Hospital.
Council member Dr. Caroline Quach said, "As a mother, I've taught my children how and when to wash their hands. I keep their vaccinations up-to-date and try to keep my kitchen as safe as possible. These simple steps go a long way to promote health for my family and the people they encounter on a daily basis."
Handwashing tips:
1. Sick people spread germs by sneezing, coughing onto their hands and touching objects such as doorknobs and stair railings. Beware of picking up these germs by rubbing your eyes or touching your nose.
2. Keep kitchen counters and other surfaces in your home as clean and dry as possible. Germs are less likely to multiply on dry surfaces.
3. Wash your hands before eating, handling raw food, feeding your family, giving medication and putting on contact lenses. As well, wash your hands after handling raw food and handling pets.
