Expert Urges Public to Prioritize Hand Hygiene and Device Cleaning to Prevent Infections

An infectious disease expert has underscored the importance of handwashing as a key preventive measure against infections, urging the public to adopt this practice consistently.

Dr. Yvette Marie Barez, Chair of the Infection Control and Prevention Unit at the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC), highlighted that infections can occur anywhere — at home or in the workplace. "Prevention begins at home and continues at the office," she stated during her appearance on the Healthy Davao Media Forum held at SM City Davao.

"We always advise people to prioritize infection prevention, with handwashing being the foremost step. Wash your hands before and after any activity," Dr. Barez emphasized.

She further advised individuals to regularly disinfect objects frequently touched, particularly mobile devices. "Gadgets are breeding grounds for bacteria, especially since they often come into contact with hands that have touched various surfaces. This increases the risk of contracting illnesses such as gastroenteritis or conjunctivitis from contaminated phones," she explained.

Dr. Barez also recommended cleaning cellphones immediately after use or when shared with others, particularly if the device has been placed on potentially dirty surfaces. "You should clean your cellphone after you return home or after use, especially if others handle it or if it was placed on a filthy table," she cautioned.

Beyond cellphones, she warned that common touchpoints like doorknobs and elevator buttons are potential sources of infection. Citing a past H1N1 outbreak, she recalled, "The infection initially spread when an infected individual pressed the elevator button."

Her guidance serves as a timely reminder for the public to maintain rigorous hygiene practices to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases.