Ignaz Semmelweis, the pioneering doctor behind hand-washing
There was a time in the not-too-distant past when hand-washing, even for doctors, wasn't considered part of basic hygiene. That is, until one man sounded the alarm.
You have to hand it to Ignaz Semmelweis, the 19th-century Hungarian doctor. For it was Semmelweis who determined, after studying maternity ward deaths, that it was hand-washing by doctors that could make all the difference between life and death.
So, soap up!
For more info:
Ignaz Semmelweis Biography (The Semmelweis Society)The Organization for Safety Asepsis and Prevention (OSAP)Infection Control (CDC)
Story produced by Robert Marston. Editor: David Bhagat.
See also:
The best way to prevent coronavirus: Wash your hands (CBS News)Are you washing your hands wrong? (CBS News)Neil Diamond changes the lyrics of "Sweet Caroline" for coronavirus PSA (CBS News)Sick of singing "Happy Birthday"? Here are 10 hipper alternatives for washing your hands (CBS News)
Or do what Gloria Gaynor does:
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