Contact with dirty hands can spread diseases like hand-foot-and-mouth disease.
A viral infection that’s common to babies and toddlers recently hit Florida State University’s living quarters, which prompted university officials to cancel numerous events and fraternity activities. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is an illness that causes sores on the hands, feet, legs, and mouth. It usually doesn’t last more than a week, but can be quite a nuisance. The disease commonly occurs during the summer and fall months.
Hand-Foot-And-Mouth Disease
Hand-Foot-and-Mouth disease is caused by an enterovirus that spreads through coughing and sneezing, and exposure to infected stool. It often breaks out within communities, and symptoms typically take 3 to 6 days to appear (the incubation period). It is a highly contagious illness that can be transmitted easily by unwashed hands, coughing, sneezing, and exposure to other bodily fluids.
Symptoms & Treatment
Sore throat, fever, and blisters on the mouth, hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks may appear. These sores and blisters will go away within a week or so. In some cases a rash may occur instead of blisters. There is no treatment for the virus, which puts an even greater emphasis on taking precautions for prevention. A person with mouth sores from Hand-Foot-and-Mouth disease may have difficulty swallowing, so it is also important to drink enough liquids to prevent dehydration.
Prevention
You can lower your risk and prevent Hand-Foot-and-Mouth disease by practicing a number of cautionary cleaning strategies. The most important thing you can do is wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after changing diapers or using the toilet. Clean and disinfect surfaces that get used a lot frequently. In the office, that typically means reception desks. Also avoid close contact such as kissing, hugging, or sharing food and eating utensils with other people who may have the disease.
Professional Cleaning Services from A 360 Cleaning
A 360 Cleaning has provided Maryland with top-notch professional cleaning and janitorial services for over 12 years. Our experience helps us understand exactly what you and your medical office needs. We don’t cut corners and ensure that every customer is satisfied with their cleaning. To explore how we can help keep your medical office clean and green this summer, give us a call at 410-852-5800 or visit us online. For more cleaning tips, follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, Google+, and LinkedIn.
Tags: commercial cleaning, disease prevention, office cleaning