The CDC and Prevention is beginning to look at a more comprehensi ve approach to infection prevention utilizing non pharmaceutical strategies by creating the Community Intervention for Infection Control department. They are participating with the Clean Hands Coalition (www.cleanhandscoalition.org ), a public private partnership created May 1, 2003 that promotes the mantra “Clean Hands Prevent Disease, Saves Lives”. This is a virtual “brain trust” of experts throughout the US who share non pharmaceutical strategies across the disciplines of food industry, healthcare, school health and public health. We are encouraged that there will be a sustainable infection prevention strategy that compliments the vaccination strategy to achieve a better outcome.
CDC and State health departments say “Try not to touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread this way.” We have been encouraging the CDC and Prevention to modify that statement that is passed through all health departments to say:
“‘Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth as this is how all respiratory infections enter the human body.”
Stating this with as much emphasis on hand washing, is the most effective method of preventing infections, would dramatically improve the public awareness how to prevent “giving themselves” respiratory and gastro-intestinal diseases. Imagine the positive impact on “staying well”!
Connecting a picture of the “T zone” with the mucus membranes of the eyes, nose and mouth, will brand the public with an image that is lasting. Please use the posters that we have for free on the web site.