Reducing the Spread of Infectious Disease Through Hand Washing

Authors

Marcus M. Comer, North Carolina A&T State UniversityFollow
Mohammad Ibrahim, North Carolina A&T State UniversityFollow
Valerie Jarvis McMillan, North Carolina A&T State UniversityFollow
Geissler G. BakerFollow
Sonya G. Patterson, North Carolina State UniversityFollow

Volume

47

Issue

1

Abstract

According to the Centers for Disease Control (2002), hand washing is the simplest, most effective measure for preventing the spread of bacteria, pathogens, and viruses. Recent studies by the American Society for Microbiology (2005) indicate that Americans do not wash their hands after going to the bathroom and before handling or eating food. The study reported here sought to determine the presence of publications encouraging the public to wash hands in two North Carolina counties. Public restrooms located in rest areas, convenience stores, restaurants, and childcare facilities were examined. Findings indicate that literature encouraging hand washing is not present.

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Recommended Citation

Comer, M. M., Ibrahim, M., McMillan, V. J., Baker, G. G., & Patterson, S. G. (2009). Reducing the Spread of Infectious Disease Through Hand Washing. The Journal of Extension, 47(1), Article 27. https://open.clemson.edu/joe/vol47/iss1/27