Coronavirus why many are still at risk amid hand washing practice

Despite the widespread practice of hand washing, many people are still at risk of contracting the coronavirus (COVID-19) due to several reasons. Here are some factors that contribute to the ongoing risk:

  1. Inadequate hand washing technique: Many people do not wash their hands correctly, which can lead to a lack of effective removal of viruses and bacteria. For example, not washing hands long enough, not using soap, or not drying hands properly.
  2. Insufficient hand washing frequency: People may not wash their hands frequently enough, especially in situations where they come into contact with contaminated surfaces or people.
  3. Touching contaminated surfaces: Even if hands are washed, touching contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, keyboards, or countertops, can transfer viruses to the hands.
  4. Not washing hands after coughing or sneezing: People may not wash their hands immediately after coughing or sneezing, which can spread viruses through the air and onto surfaces.
  5. Not washing hands after touching animals or their waste: People who come into contact with animals or their waste, such as pet owners or farmers, may not wash their hands properly, increasing the risk of transmission.
  6. Not washing hands after handling food: Food handlers may not wash their hands frequently enough, especially after handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood, which can lead to cross-contamination.
  7. Lack of access to hand sanitizer or soap: In some areas, especially in low-income or remote communities, access to hand sanitizer or soap may be limited, making it difficult for people to practice good hand hygiene.
  8. Cultural or social barriers: In some cultures or communities, hand washing may not be a common practice, or people may not feel comfortable washing their hands in public.
  9. Lack of education or awareness: Some people may not understand the importance of hand washing or may not know how to wash their hands correctly, which can lead to a lack of effective hand hygiene practices.
  10. Viral mutations and new strains: The coronavirus is constantly evolving, and new strains may emerge that are more contagious or resistant to hand washing.
  11. Environmental factors: Environmental factors, such as poor ventilation, high humidity, or extreme temperatures, can contribute to the spread of the virus.
  12. Human behavior: Human behavior, such as not wearing masks, not maintaining social distancing, or not reporting symptoms, can also contribute to the spread of the virus.

To reduce the risk of transmission, it is essential to practice good hand hygiene, wear masks, maintain social distancing, and follow other public health guidelines.