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Hand washing web programme 'helps reduce infections'

A web-based programme encouraging people to wash their hands more frequently could reduce the risk of catching and passing on infections, a study suggests.

Researchers writing in The Lancet tested it on around 16,000 households in the UK during the winter flu season.

They found a 14% reduction in general risk of infection and a 20% lower risk of catching flu in those who used it.

This group also visited their GP less and needed fewer antibiotics.

Most people wash their hands five or six times a day, but Prof Paul Little, from the University of Southampton, who led the research, said that if that could be increased to 10 times a day it would have an important effect on reducing the spread of bugs and infections.

Previous research has shown that infections in adults could be prevented if they washed their hands more often and reduced their 'viral load'.

This would be of particular benefit to people who do not want to catch flu, such as those with heart or lung problems or the elderly.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-33804625

I do hope every member will read this important topic and respond.

They didn't need research to prove this , it is surely common sense!!!

I read somewhere that too much money is being spent on research in universities, this is a good example.

Far to much money is being spent on research when it could go towards better heath care.

Surely it is just common sense ^^^^ .

I wish people would use tissues or handkerchiefs when they sneeze.

My old School Nurse used to say there was no substitute for hot water and soap

I agree on the tissue comment! I hold my breath if anyone sneezes near me!

I think sometimes people get complacent about hand washing.

They say singing happy birthday to you is about the correct amount of time you should spend washing your hands. Although singing that out loud in a public loo may get you sectioned!!! do877