What is the best form of infection control?

Hand washing is considered the best form of infection control because it effectively removes dirt, bacteria, and viruses from the skin. This practice reduces the risk of transmitting infections, especially in early childhood settings where children are in close proximity to one another and are often unaware of proper hygiene practices.

When washing hands with soap and water, the mechanical action helps to lift pathogens from the skin, and the soap works to break down oils and grime that may harbor germs. Proper hand washing involves scrubbing all parts of the hands, including the backs, between the fingers, and under the nails for at least 20 seconds. This thoroughness is crucial for effective infection prevention.

While using hand sanitizer can be beneficial, particularly when soap and water are not available, it might not eliminate all types of germs, especially if hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Wearing gloves is necessary in specific situations, such as handling food or performing first aid, but they do not replace the need for hand washing, as gloves can also become contaminated. Isolating sick children from others is an important practice to prevent the spread of illness, but it does not directly address the control of infections within the entire environment. Therefore, hand washing remains the cornerstone of infection control in early childhood settings.