Having diabetes puts you at an increased risk for infection. Having type 2 diabetes reduces the body’s ability to fight infection. In addition, having high blood sugar produces an environment for pathogens to multiply. If you get an infection, it can trigger diabetes complications. Diabetic ketoacidosis and hypoglycemia can result in complications including increased hospital visits.
Research shows the best way to reduce the risk of infection and diabetes complications is by proper hand washing and good hand hygiene. Even though your hands are not visibly soiled, there are germs and pathogens that unwashed hands leave behind. Some examples are coughing and sneezing in your hands, not washing your hands after you use the bathroom, handling money, sharing office equipment including keyboards, using public restrooms, and touching doorknobs.
Always wash your hands before and after using your glucometer. Research also shows that not washing your hands before testing your blood sugar can give you an inaccurate reading. It is important to wash your hands frequently throughout the day to get rid of germs and reduce the risk of infection. Remember to wash before and after meals, after using the bathroom, and after touching surfaces. It is also recommended to cough or sneeze into your sleeve to reduce the risk of spreading germs.
The best method to reduce the risk of infection and the spread of germs is to wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice). Do not forget to wash under your fingernails and include washing your wrists. If you do not have access to soap and water, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be effective.
Remember, following good hand hygiene and proper hand washing protocols can reduce the risk of infection, reduce the risk of diabetes complications, reduce hospital stays, and save lives.
Resources : pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262113/
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/hand-hygiene.html
All Blogs are written by Professionals in the fields of Nutrition, Human Development and Diabetes.