You're sneezing and coughing badly: that's how you should do it

In recent weeks we are experiencing an overload of news about the coronavirus (COVID-19), which tell how the virus is spreading throughout the world and also have an impact on keeping calm but always following adequate security measures. According to experts, even more important than masks is washing hands, which, by the way, we also tell you how it should be done properly.

The coronavirus is likely to have a lot to do with collective hysteria, but you probably don't like to be next to someone who coughs non-stop, even if you don't want to spend the next week in bed with seasonal flu. That is why health measures also include protecting others (and you) from contagion. Yes you are a little apprehensive and would you like to tell your coworker to put his hand every time he sneezes or if you're starting to feel a little feverish As you read this article, continue.

Don't cover yourself with your hand

From an early age they educate us about the importance of cover our mouth every time we cough and sneeze and, nevertheless, a study carried out in 2010 by the University of Otago in Wellington (Australia) He questioned the fact that this practice is really internalized in the population. The safest thing is that, depending on your level of education, you cover yourself by hand or do nothing directly every time an access arrives, but you are doing it wrong.

Cover your nose and mouth with your elbow, it is the part of the body that just comes into contact with other external elements and you will avoid contagion

From now on, keep this in mind: the most recommended method is to cover your mouth and nose with a handkerchief, which you should then discard immediately after use. If you do not feel the strength to discard 'kleenex' continuously, then the best alternative is to cover your mouth and nose with your elbow. This is because it is the part of the body that barely comes into contact with other elements, unlike the hands that are one of the main germ transmitters. Then you will touch the subway bar and your partner's face, so try not to sneeze on you.

Sneeze drops

Coughing and sneezing incorrectly increase the possibility of contagion of diseases that are transmitted by air, such as the flu. According to 'Times of India', a recent study found that the droplets we expel when we sneeze or cough (known as flügge drops) travel up to two meters and, on some occasions, up to eight, depending on the ventilation of a particular space, can extend through the room in just a few seconds and remain for about ten minutes.

Research also found that the flu virus can survive on some surfaces up to 24 hoursTherefore, it is essential to cover yourself to stop the spread of diseases.

Hygiene

Therefore, we have a new impact on the importance of hand hygiene To avoid contagion. Washing with soap and water is the safest option, and if you cannot, disinfectant and hydroalcholic gels are also an option, however, it is always better to use a sink if you have one at hand. And remember that this is how you should do it, according to a guide courtesy of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Wet your hands with clean water (it seems obvious, and maybe it is).
• Rub your hands to create foam. Don't forget about clean between fingers and nails, since bacteria can hide in the cracks.
• Do it for at least 20 seconds.
• Rinse
• Dry with a clean towel. This means no It has been used more than three times. It is probably not as clean as you think, towels are usually a breeding ground for bacteria. They contain many requirements for them to grow in them: neutral PH, water, warm temperatures … you can imagine.

Remember that prevention is essential, take care of yourself.