Prevention of Bacterial, Viral & Foodborne Illnesses

While getting sick isn’t always avoidable, there are things you can do to help prevent illnesses. Keep reading to learn about ways to prevent bacterial, viral and foodborne illnesses with the help of All Portable Sinks!

Bacterial Illnesses

People are exposed to numerous types of bacteria each and every day. The vast majority of these bacteria are harmless, some even helpful. However, there are a handful of bacteria that can cause illness and infection. Bacterial infections range from mild to severe and can affect everything from your skin to your blood and your organs. Pneumonia and meningitis are a couple of common illnesses caused by bacteria. One of the best ways to prevent bacterial illness is to practice good hygiene. This includes frequently washing your hands. Make sure to always wash your hands after sneezing and coughing or going to the bathroom, as well as several other times throughout the day. When doing so, be sure to use antibacterial soap and warm water. Disinfect high-traffic objects in your home and office, such as door knobs, sink handles, toilet handles, etc. at least once a week. Avoid close contract with anyone who is sick with a contagious bacterial infection. In addition, fortify your immune system by eating healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables.

Viral Illnesses

Cold and flu season is upon us. These are both common types of viral infections. The main difference between a bacterial infection and a viral infection is that viruses are much smaller than bacteria and cannot reproduce without a host. Symptoms and prevention however, are often very similar. Viral infections are contagious for various amounts of times depending on the virus. During that contagious period, it’s important you do everything possible to prevent the spread of the virus to others. Viruses can be transmitted in various ways including through touch, saliva or even the air. Insects can also carry viral diseases, transmitting them from one host to another. Respiratory viral infections affect the lungs, nose and throat, and are likely the most common viral illnesses. Frequent handwashing, covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing and avoiding contact with infected individuals can all reduce the spread of respiratory infections from a virus. 

Foodborne Illnesses

Food poisoning is a common foodborne illness caused by either bacteria or a virus. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, chills and abdominal pain. Raw meat, fish, eggs, poultry and unpasteurized dairy products can all harbor harmful bacteria that can cause illness. That’s why sanitation is so important when preparing foods. This includes both keeping your hands clean by washing them regularly and keeping your utensils and countertops clean. Always wash your hands before and after handling food, as well as anytime you touch raw meats. Be sure to wash your food thoroughly as well, like fruits and vegetables, especially if you won’t be cooking them. Also be sure to avoid cross contamination by using the same utensils for different items. Thoroughly clean sinks, cutting boards and countertops after preparing food, as contaminated surfaces are a major cause of cross-contamination.

What do all these various illnesses have in common? Keeping your hands clean through regular and proper handwashing. All Portable Sinks is here to help make handwashing easy wherever you may be. Our portable sinks bring hot and cold running water to areas where traditional plumbing is not available. By bringing the handwashing station to you, our sinks are helping prevent the spread of bacterial, viral and foodborne illnesses in your classrooms, daycares, nursing homes, workplaces and more!

All Portable Sinks - Making Clean-Up Easier!