Targeted Hygiene means focusing hygiene practices at the times and in the places that matter to break the chain of infection and reduce the risk of exposure to harmful microbes.
The concept promotes the appropriate and correct use of cleaning and/or disinfectant products at specific moments in order to break the chain of infection. The nine key moments for hygiene include the following activities:
- During food handling
- Whilst eating with fingers
- Using the toilet or changing a baby’s nappy
- Coughing, sneezing or nose blowing
- Touching surfaces frequently touches by other persons
- Handling and laundering clothing, towels and bed linen
- Caring for domestic animals
- Handling and disposing of rubbish
- Caring for an infected family member
Targeted hygiene enables good hygiene practices as a routine part of daily life. Greater information on the concept and how to make it a reality in our communities can be found in the report below. This report was developed jointly by A.I.S.E. and International Forum for Home Hygiene (IFH). It presents the principles of this targeted approach to hygiene, outlines the importance of breaking the chain of infection and provdies guidance on the critical contact points common.
The report also sheds light on the response of European consumers to the Covid-19 pandemic and the lessons to be learned by health authorities, medical practitioners and other stakeholders working in health, hygiene, and infection prevention. It additionally provides detailed analysis of the industry’s research into consumers’ behaviours and hygiene beliefs. Finally, the report presents several calls to action to stakeholders, including industry, the scientific community, and competent authorities to mention a few, who each have a critical role in promoting greater hygiene awareness, and with it reducing the burden of infection.
