The Power of Handwashing in Preventing Illness
In settings where people gather at KAUST—whether at large public events, intimate private parties, or venues where food is served—hand hygiene is a critical line of defense against the spread of infectious diseases.
Viruses and bacteria can cause illnesses like gastroenteritis, food poisoning, and upper respiratory infections, and can easily transfer through contaminated hands, surfaces, or shared utensils. Proper handwashing before eating, after using the restroom, after diapering children, after handling pets, after touching shared surfaces, after coughing or sneezing, and during food preparation significantly reduces the risk of illness.
Promoting hand hygiene in these environments not only protects individual health but also safeguards the well-being of the entire KAUST community, ensuring that gatherings remain safe, enjoyable, and illness-free.
Why it matters
Gastroenteritis—commonly known as the stomach flu—is a highly contagious illness caused by viruses (like norovirus and rotavirus) and bacteria (such as E. coli and Salmonella). These pathogens spread easily in communal environments like university campuses through:
- Contaminated hands
- Shared surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, desks, cafeteria trays)
- Improper food handling
- Inadequate sanitation
Handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. According to the CDC:
- Handwashing can reduce diarrheal diseases by 23–40%
- It can reduce respiratory illnesses by 16–21%
- It can lower absenteeism due to gastrointestinal illness in schools by 29–57%
For questions or comments, please contact the Health, Safety and Environment department at hse@kaust.edu.sa.
Thank you for Keeping KAUST Safe!