Hygiene

Hygiene is the science and practices that maintain health and prevent disease by preserving cleanliness and sanitary conditions. It encompasses personal hygiene, environmental hygiene, food hygiene, and occupational hygiene, and is a key component of public health.

Personal hygiene includes regular handwashing with soap and water, bathing or showering, dental care, nail trimming, and clean clothing. Hand hygiene is particularly effective at interrupting transmission of many pathogens.

Environmental hygiene involves the cleanliness of homes and workplaces, safe disposal of waste, clean water, adequate ventilation, pest control, and routine cleaning and disinfection of surfaces to reduce exposure to contaminants.

Food hygiene covers safe handling, preparation, storage, and cooking of food to prevent contamination and foodborne illness. This includes proper cooking temperatures, avoiding cross-contamination, and maintaining hygienic kitchens and food facilities.

Occupational and healthcare hygiene addresses reducing exposure to hazards in work environments, use of personal protective equipment, infection control practices, and vaccination.

Public health relevance: improving hygiene can reduce incidence of diarrheal diseases, respiratory infections, and other conditions; water and sanitation improvements have broad health impacts, particularly in low-resource settings.

Cultural and historical notes: hygiene practices vary by culture and context; modern hygiene relied on sanitation, infrastructure, and education to lower disease burden.

Limitations and guidance: hygiene complements medical care; individuals should follow local public health advice and seek care for illness or injuries.