What are these 'germs'? Let's simply learn about these enemies that make us sick!

We've all heard the word 'germs', right? Especially in a home with young children, we often hear things like "wash your hands, they're germs" and "don't eat what's on the floor, they're germs." How many times a day do we say this word without even thinking? But what exactly are these germs? Even though they're invisible to the naked eye, how do they affect our lives? Is it true that some are good? Today, we'll talk about this very simply, in language that you and I can understand.

Simply put, germs are living things that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. In medicine, we call these microorganisms. They are everywhere. In the air you breathe, the water you drink, the soil you walk on, the food we eat, the bodies of animals, the plants... In short, they are everywhere you can think of. These germs live on the screen of the phone you are reading this on, on the doorknob you are touching, on your skin, and even inside your body.

But don't be afraid of the word 'germs'. Not all of these microorganisms make us sick. In fact, there are also good germs that help us stay healthy and are essential for us. For example, some bacteria in our intestines help us digest the food we eat and protect us from bad germs that come from outside. However, there are some germs that, if they enter our bodies, can make us sick. This is why we should wash our hands regularly to prevent the spread of these bad, disease-causing germs.

What are the main types of germs?

We can divide the germs that can cause disease into four main types. Each type works differently and is treated differently. Let's understand this clearly.

How do these germs spread from one place to another?

Germs are like a stealthy army. They use various methods to spread from one place to another, from one person to another.

• Direct contact: Germs can be transferred directly by touching, shaking hands, hugging, or kissing someone who is sick. Also, sharing items such as cups, plates, spoons, and towels used by someone who is sick can spread the disease.

• Through the air: When an infected person coughs or sneezes, tiny droplets of saliva from their mouth and nose are released into the environment. These droplets can contain millions of germs. When we breathe in that air, those germs enter our bodies.

• Touching dirty surfaces: This is the main way we unknowingly pick up germs. Imagine, you are on a bus and touch a wire. It could have germs on it from the hands of hundreds of people who have touched that wire before. Then you eat something with that same hand, or touch your nose, mouth, or eyes. That's when germs can easily enter your body. This risk exists everywhere we touch every day, such as doorknobs, banknotes, ATM machines, and tables.

• Unclean food and water: Germs like bacteria and protozoa can easily enter the body through improperly cleaned and cooked food and unclean water. This is why we always recommend drinking boiled water, washing hands thoroughly before eating, and washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly.

• Through animals and insects: Just as dengue and malaria are transmitted by mosquitoes, when some animals bite, their saliva can immediately transmit germs to our bodies.

How long can germs survive in the external environment?

This is a question that many people ask. Each type of germ has a different lifespan in the external environment, that is, on different surfaces. Several factors determine that lifespan:

• The type of germ: The time varies depending on whether it is a bacteria, virus, or fungus.
• Surface type: Can survive longer on nonporous surfaces like metal and plastic. Can survive shorter on porous surfaces like fabric and paper.
• Environment: The temperature and humidity of the location also affect this.

Let's see how long some commonly encountered germs survive on various surfaces.

What are the ways to destroy germs?

We use various things to destroy these invisible enemies around us. But do all of them really work?

Can rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizer help?

Yes. But there is one condition. The hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol you use must contain at least 70% isopropyl alcohol. Those with a lower percentage will not kill germs properly. If you are cleaning a surface, spray or wipe it on it for at least 30 seconds and then wipe it off.

What about hydrogen peroxide?

Yes, hydrogen peroxide is a good disinfectant that can kill many germs, including bacteria and viruses. But it's also best for hard, nonporous surfaces. For best results, spray it on the surface and let it sit for at least a minute before wiping.

Does vinegar kill germs?

This is a common misconception. No. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), vinegar is ineffective against most bacteria and viruses, including the flu virus and the coronavirus. While undiluted white vinegar may kill some bacteria, it is not the best disinfectant. So don't rely on vinegar to clean your home.

Does heat destroy germs?

Yes, absolutely. According to the World Health Organization, temperatures of 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher can kill most viruses. That's why we boil water before drinking it. Also, washing things like dishes in hot water (e.g., dishwasher) can kill germs.

What can we do to prevent the spread of germs?

By now you have a good understanding of germs. Now let's look at the simplest things we can do to stop them from spreading and keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

Here's how to wash your hands properly:

1. First, wet your hands with clean water.

2. Take enough soap and rub it well on your hands.

3. Rub your hands, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails for at least 20 seconds , working up a good lather. (If you can rub your hands together until you can mentally sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice, that's enough time.)

4. Then rinse thoroughly with water until all the soap is gone.

5. Dry your hands with a clean cloth or tissue.

• Keep a hand sanitizer handy: When soap and water are not available, use a sanitizer that contains at least 70% alcohol. While this is a good alternative, it is not as effective as washing your hands with soap.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. If you don't have a tissue, use your elbow instead of your hand.
• Stay home if you are sick: If you have a contagious illness like a fever or cold, stay home and rest to prevent spreading it to others.
• Stay away from sick people: Stay as far away as possible from someone who has a contagious disease.
• Think about food safety: Wash your hands before preparing and eating food. Separate cutting boards and knives for raw meat and fish from those used for cutting vegetables. Cook food thoroughly.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces: Clean frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, phones, and remote controls with disinfectant frequently.

Germs are a part of our lives. They are everywhere. While some germs help us, some make us sick. But if you incorporate these simple habits into your daily life, you can definitely get a lot of protection from these bad germs.

Germs, Bacteria, Viruses, Infections, Handwashing, Health