kéztisztítás

Kéztisztítás is the Hungarian term for hand hygiene, encompassing both hand washing with soap and water and hand disinfection with alcohol‑based hand rubs. The word derives from “kéz” (hand) and “tisztítás” (cleaning). It is a fundamental measure in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, particularly in healthcare, food service, and everyday settings.

The importance of kéztisztítás was highlighted during outbreaks of SARS, influenza, and more recently COVID‑19, where diligent hand hygiene reduced nosocomial infections by up to 40 %. Scientific studies show that bacteria and viruses can be transmitted to the face, mucous membranes or other surfaces if hands are not properly cleaned.

Effective hand washing requires at least 20 seconds of scrubbing with soap and water, covering all fingertips, under nails, wrists, and thumbs. When water is scarce, an alcohol‑based hand rub containing at least 60 % ethanol or isopropanol achieves comparable germicidal results. Proper drying is essential; gauze or air dryers should be used to prevent recontamination.

Health authorities in Hungary, such as the National Institute for Public Health, align with WHO recommendations: hand washing should be performed before and after patient contact, after touching bodily fluids, and after using public facilities. In hospitals, hand hygiene compliance is monitored using direct observation and electronic monitoring systems.

Guidelines emphasize that hand hygiene should be performed regularly and repeatedly, particularly in high‑traffic areas. Training programs for healthcare workers make use of visual cues and reminders. Public awareness campaigns employ posters and videos to reinforce the practice in schools, restaurants, and transportation hubs. Through consistent practice, kéztisztítás serves as a simple yet powerful tool to protect public health and reduce the transmission of pathogens.