Right here at We ❤ Well being Literacy Headquarters, we’re massive followers of easy-to-understand suggestions for stopping the unfold of COVID-19. And although well being specialists have been offering loads of steering, typically the recommendation isn’t so clear.

Living proof: “Apply good hygiene.” Certain, that’s useful if you already know precisely what specialists imply by “good hygiene.” However many individuals don’t!

Typically talking, good hygiene means holding your self and your environment clear. However relying on the context, that may imply something from washing your arms to brushing your enamel each day or carrying clear garments.

So, how are you going to talk clearly about “good hygiene”? It’s easy — skip that time period and get straight to the precise steps folks can take to shield themselves and others. For COVID-19 prevention supplies, attempt these suggestions:

• Wash your arms — lots. Rub cleaning soap in your arms for a minimum of 20 seconds, then rinse it off with water.
• For those who don’t have cleaning soap and water, use hand sanitizer that’s a minimum of 60 p.c alcohol. Rub it in your arms till it dries.
• Cowl your nostril and mouth if you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue when you have one and your elbow when you don’t.
• Strive not to contact your face. If in case you have to contact your face, wash your arms first — and once more afterward.
• Hold your own home clear. Concentrate on cleansing belongings you contact lots — like doorknobs and lightweight switches. Use soapy water, a cleansing spray, or disinfecting wipes.

In fact, one thing so simple as handwashing generally is a problem for individuals who don’t have entry to fundamental companies like working water. If that is your viewers, make sure to point out any native assets that may assist — like public handwashing stations or authorized assist to assist battle a water service shutoff. And concentrate on steps they can take, like staying away from different folks as a lot as doable.

The underside line: As a substitute of telling your viewers to “follow good hygiene,” simply give them particular steps they’ll take to keep wholesome.

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How to Explain “Good Hygiene” was initially printed in wehearthealthliteracy on Medium, the place persons are persevering with the dialog by highlighting and responding to this story.