Why promote good hygieneGood hygiene can stop people getting infected by germs (eg. parasites, bacteria and viruses) that cause serious diseases. Some diseases can put people in hospital for weeks. (See the 'A to Z' list below.) This separation adds to the stress of the sick person and their family and friends. In more serious cases, people can die.
In most cases, good hygiene comes down to a few basic measures such as:
The following links are to information about common health problems caused by germs and that can be prevented with good hygiene. By understanding how these problems are caused, EHWs can help people in the community protect themselves with good hygiene habits. Other fact sheets are available from Queensland Health’s Communicable Diseases Unit.
Hepatitis A (Qld Health fact sheet)ICEH has a number of case studies and community information sheets on its website. As well as information for professionals, the community information sheets will help raise community awareness of diseases related to poor hygiene. (Open the ICEH 'A to Z' Issues page, scroll down to the topic you are interested in, and then click the link to the community information sheets link.)
Helping prevent injuries in the home is also important because cuts, scratches, and burns can become infected. More information on preventing injuries is at the end of this page.
Homes and yards need to be clean and tidy so they are safe for residents and visitors. Cuts from rusty metal or standing on a nail can lead to infections, such as tetanus.
People with babies or small children need to take special care in and around their houses. Children can be badly burnt with hot liquids and food, or injured on unsafe play equipment. Medicines, household cleaners and other things that can poison children should be kept in a safe place. Children can also be injured by pulling furniture and TV sets over onto themselves. Larger pieces of furniture (eg. cupboards and wardrobes) should be securely anchored to the floor or wall.
Flammable liquids, such as petrol and kerosene, should also be kept out of the reach of small children. For more information, please see Dangerous Goods.
Animals can carry diseases (eg. leptospirosis) and parasites (eg. tapeworms). People should not allow dogs to lick their faces, or urinate (pee) or defecate (kuma) where children play. Dogs should be properly cared for and regularly treated to get rid of worms, fleas, ticks and skin infections. More information can be found on the Animal Management page.
Other languages