It’s no secret that germs are everywhere, especially when there’s a lack of environmental hygiene. Still, few people realise they can be found in most homes. This article will discuss the different types of germs found in almost any home, what can be done to maintain germs and disease control, and how to prevent them from making people sick.
WHAT ARE THE VARIOUS TYPES OF GERMS AT HOME?
Three possible types of germs are found in homes: faecal, pathogenic, and viruses. Faecal bacteria is the most common type of germ found in homes. It is a type of bacteria found in the intestines and stools of humans and animals that can cause many diseases, such as diarrhoea, dysentery, and cholera. They’re usually spread through contact with contaminated surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches, and dirty laundry.
Pathogenic bacteria are responsible for causing diseases like Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus. They’re often spread through contact with raw meat or poultry or by touching contaminated surfaces and transferring the bacteria to the mouth or nose. Pathogenic bacteria usually make people sick by causing an infection. The most common way that pathogenic bacteria cause infection is by getting into the body through a cut or wound. Once the bacteria are in the body, they can multiply and make people sick.
Viruses are microscopic infectious agents that can replicate only inside the living cells of an organism. They are much smaller than bacteria. Viruses are the most dangerous type of germ, as they can cause severe illnesses like influenza and pneumonia. In addition, viruses are immune to antibiotics, so they can’t be treated easily with medicine. Viruses are usually spread through contact with respiratory secretions, like saliva or mucus, when coughing or sneezing or touching contaminated surfaces and then transferring the virus to the eyes, nose, or mouth.
WHERE ARE GERMS COMMONLY FOUND AT HOME?
Germs can be found in many places at home, such as on door handles, light switches, bathroom faucet handles, kitchen sink faucets, bathroom towels, sponges, and countertops. They can also be found on solid surfaces like tables and chairs. In addition, germs can be found in the air, on clothing, and bed linens.
There are more faecal bacteria on kitchen sink faucets than on any other home place. People often forget to wash their hands after using the restroom and touch these surfaces. A little-known source of germs is pet toys. It is because pets often carry bacteria on their fur or skin, which can be transferred to their toys.
Bathroom towels are another common source of germs. One study found that bathroom towels contain more faecal bacteria than toilet seats. People often use the same towel to dry their hands and face after using the restroom, which can transfer bacteria from the hands to the towel.
Sponges are also another common breeding ground for germs. It is because they’re often used to clean up food and other messes, which can leave behind bacteria. In addition, a kitchen sponge is often kept in damp environments, which provides the perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply.
HOW MANY GERMS CAN BE FOUND AT HOME?
The amount of germs present at home depends on factors like:
- The number of people living in the home
- The cleanliness of the house
- Any pets at home.
In general, homes with more people tend to have more germs. It gave more opportunities for bacteria and viruses to spread.
Homes that are not cleaned regularly also tend to have more germs. This is because dirt and dust can provide a food source for bacteria and viruses, which can help them to multiply. In addition, homes that have pets usually have more germs. Animals can track in dirt and bacteria from outside, contaminating the house’s surfaces.
HOW CAN PEOPLE PREVENT GERMS FROM MAKING THEM SICK?
There are many things that people can do to prevent germs from making them sick. One of these things includes washing their hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or preparing food. Alternatively, if there is no access to water, use a hand sanitiser Singapore companies sell at various outlets to disinfect the hands. People should also avoid touching their faces, especially their eyes, nose, and mouths.
In addition, people can start using disinfecting wipes or a household cleaner on surfaces. It’s also important to use disinfectant wipes to clean and disinfect home areas commonly touched by hands, such as light switches, door knobs, and faucets. Moreover, avoid sharing personal items like towels, bed linens, and dishes.
If there are pets in the household, make sure to wash their toys and bedding regularly. In addition, always clean up any pet messes immediately.
One of the best ways to prevent spreading germs is to stay at home when sick. This will help to prevent other people from getting sick. Last but not least, stay up to date on vaccinations so the body is prepared to fight off infections.
WHAT ELSE CAN BE DONE TO REDUCE THE SPREAD OF GERMS AT HOME?
There are a few other things that can be done to reduce the spread of germs at home. One of these is using hot water when washing dishes and laundry. This will help to kill any bacteria that may be present. Another thing that can be done is to soak sponges in a bleach solution for at least five minutes daily. This will help eradicate any bacteria actively lurking on the sponge.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
- It’s essential to be aware of the different types of germs that can be found in the home. By taking some simple steps, such as washing hands regularly and cleaning surfaces with disinfectant wipes, people can help to prevent the spread of germs and keep themselves and their families safe and healthy.