higiéné

Higiéné is a term that refers to the practice of maintaining cleanliness and preventing the spread of disease. It encompasses a range of personal and public health measures aimed at promoting well-being and reducing illness. Personal hygiene practices typically include regular handwashing with soap and water, bathing or showering, oral care such as brushing teeth, and maintaining clean clothing. These actions help to remove dirt, bacteria, and other pathogens from the body, thereby lowering the risk of infections.

Public hygiene, on the other hand, involves collective efforts to ensure a sanitary environment for communities. This includes proper waste disposal, safe drinking water supply, sanitation systems like sewage treatment, and food safety regulations. Public health initiatives often focus on educating the public about hygiene practices and implementing policies that support a clean environment. The importance of hygiene has been recognized for centuries, with significant advancements in understanding germ theory leading to widespread adoption of modern hygiene standards, which have dramatically reduced mortality rates from infectious diseases. Effective hygiene is a cornerstone of individual health and a vital component of public health infrastructure.