What is considered the best method of infection control?

Washing your hands is considered the best method of infection control because it effectively removes dirt, bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from the skin. Handwashing with soap and water allows for the mechanical action of scrubbing, which helps dislodge contaminants from the surfaces of the skin, while soap acts to break down oils and lift remnants of pathogens.

This method is particularly emphasized in healthcare settings where the risk of transmitting infections is high. Hand hygiene, through proper washing techniques, is shown to significantly reduce the incidence of healthcare-associated infections.

While hand sanitizers can be effective when soap and water are not available, they may not remove all types of germs, especially in the presence of visible dirt. Wearing gloves provides a barrier against pathogens but is not a substitute for hand hygiene because contaminants can still be transferred to the skin when gloves are removed or if they are not used properly. Avoiding contact with sick individuals is a preventive measure but does not directly aid in personal hygiene practices that reduce the spread of infections. Therefore, handwashing is recognized as the most comprehensive method for infection control.