How a Pandemic Will Change Our Perception of Hygiene

Who knew Covid-19 would effect the way we live our lives for so long.  This pandemic has created changes in human behaviour and our attitudes towards hygiene.

Not only has hand hygiene become of utmost importance during this global pandemic, but also critical to prevent the possible spread of other infectious diseases. Social scientists James Clear claims it takes about two months for a behaviour to become a habit. This pandemic is in its second year.

Large amounts of the population have not come into contact with the coronavirus, so we remain potentially vulnerable to further waves of the disease and new strains of the virus. Further peaks are inevitable as long as the virus is still spreading, making a return to normal feels seemingly out of reach.

But perhaps the measures we have put in place to control the virus are not so bad. Hygiene measures, such as hand washing and disinfection, prevent virus transmission via contaminated surfaces. It has been proven that both social distancing and improved hygiene prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

If we can maintain these measures, there will also be fewer cases of flu and the common cold. The spread of germs that cause diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting will also be reduced. More importantly, these measures could prevent the next pandemic, which could be much more deadly than COVID-19 or seasonal flu. Hence, changing our perception of the importance of hygiene can be seen as a positive outcome of this pandemic.

Sanokil can help you improve the hygiene of your workplace with our large array of hygiene services and products. Safe work Australia also has information for small businesses, a resource kit and information about how to look after your vulnerable workers.