Exploratory analysis on the practice of hand hygiene applied by people against COVID-19 in Argentina
Keywords:
coronavirus infections, hand washing, ArgentinaAbstract
Abstract:Hand hygiene is one of the most popular tips to prevent diarrheal and respiratory diseases. Faced with COVID-19, the message has been extended to specific situations not only in the hospital setting, but also in the community, however, despite being a simple habit, it is not fulfilled frequently.
It was proposed to analyze the hand hygiene practice that people apply to COVID-19 in Argentina.
A descriptive, observational and cross-sectional study was carried out. The sample was non-probabilistic by snowball. An anonymous online survey was designed on Google form and shared on social media. It was answered by a total of 1,362 people over 18 years of age, residing in Argentina, during the month of May-2021. It was divided into two sections: sociodemographic characteristics and hand hygiene practice. Correct hand washing was considered when: soap and water were used, the duration of the procedure between 40-60 seconds and a washing frequency “always” before and after key moments. For the statistical analysis, the STATA v.15 software was used and the chi-square test and logistic regressions adjusted for sex and age were applied.
The majority of those surveyed were women (74.9%) and the university level of study predominated (63.3%). 88.1% used soap and water for hygiene, however only 23.8% complied with the recommended time; the remaining 76.3% used less than 30 seconds or did not control the washing time. Regarding frequency, 85.1% washed their hands more than 3 times a day, but more than 50% washed their hands sometimes / never after blowing their nose, touching their face and objects. The prevalence of correct hand washing was 4.7% (3.2% in men and 5.3% in women). There was an association between correct hand washing and being or not a member of the health team (p = 0.001).
In conclusion, people sanitize their hands, however, most fail to comply with the time and frequency recommended to prevent COVID-19.
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