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   “Cleanliness is a state of purity, clarity, and precision.”

    In a world full of people, at least some are in full hygiene and aware of cleanliness. In some places, there are contagious diseases, but do people really know what to do in order for this not to go out of hand? Is there anything that can stop this by just doing the simplest things?

    Hand, foot, and mouth disease or commonly known as HFMD has continued to rise in cases nationwide. This has been a concern for the past few months now, and the Department of Health has encouraged people, especially those in schools, to conduct proper handwashing practices to prevent this illness. Not only does it spread from person to person, but it also spreads through objects that have been touched by someone infected.

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   This primarily affects children, and the number of infections has increased seven times this year compared to last year. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa advised youngsters, teachers, and caregivers to make sure that they wash their hands regularly with soap and clean water because it reduces the risk of transmitting viruses. As the health chief talked about the things people can do to avoid the illness, he also mentioned that there is a proper method of handwashing and a proper duration, which are taught in schools. He explained that this can help students have a better understanding of the situation.

    What should you do when you find out that there are no signs of soap and water everywhere? Well, alcohol-based hand rubs are still an effective option in the absence of other hygiene kits. When we know that there are times when we lack hygiene supplies, we should be reminded to be prepared by bringing sanitizers or travel-sized alcohol. This way, we can assure ourselves that we still practice hygienic habits.

    Even authorities urge teachers to include handwashing lessons in daily classroom routines so that the habit will stick with children. Reminding parents to supervise handwashing at home has also become a way to make sure children follow the correct steps. Now that everyone is aware that HFMD causes fever, mouth sores, and rashes on different parts of the body, people make sure they won’t leave any symptoms unmanaged to prevent complications.

    According to the World Health Organization, HFMD mostly affects children under five years old, but older kids and even adults can get infected too. Since    the virus spreads fast in crowded areas like schools and                  playgrounds, good hygiene is one of the best ways to fight it.

    Being alert does not only mean being knowledgeable. It also means pairing knowledge with responsibility to help stop any damage before it even begins. Make sure to be clean and neat, because HFMD spreads—and so does ignorance.

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