DrGreene Content
I came across an interesting article in the June 3, 2003 Boston Globe. “Water bottles are not all created equal.” The article quotes Ryan Jordan, a biofilm engineer, who explained that softer plastic bottles can create a safe haven for bacteria and lead to infections when people head off for summer fun at picnics, hiking trails, and campsites. After relating a number of tips for keeping water clean, the article makes a profound, off-hand statement. Surprisingly, the main cause for infections on the trail is not bacteria or parasites in rivers, streams, ponds, or water bottles. Instead, the problem comes when people enjoying the outdoors don’t wash their hands after going to the bathroom! This is especially true before preparing or eating a picnic meal or an outdoor snack. Soap and water may not be practical on the go, but alcohol-based instant hand sanitizers are portable, healthy, effective ways to get the hands clean even without soap and water. What a great tip for enjoying the sun or the stars or summer family fun.
Alan Greene MD FAAP
Originally published: June 09, 2003
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