High School

Consider the links in the chain of infection. Which of the links is broken when hands are thoroughly washed?

a. Mode of transmission - When hands are thoroughly washed, it removes the potential for viruses and bacteria to be spread from one person to another.

b. Susceptible host - Regular hand washing reduces the chances of a person becoming infected by removing harmful bacteria and viruses from hands.

c. Reservoir - Thorough hand washing eliminates harmful pathogens that may be present on hands, reducing the risk of contamination from surfaces or objects.

d. Portal of entry - By preventing the spread of harmful pathogens through hand washing, the risk of these pathogens entering the body through the mouth, nose, or eyes is significantly reduced.

Answer :

Final answer:

Thorough hand washing primarily breaks the chain of infection at the 'mode of transmission' point by removing pathogens from the skin, preventing their spread to others or surfaces. It also reduces the risk of pathogens entering the body, targeting the 'portal of entry' link. Correct hand hygiene is critical for reducing the transmission of diseases.

Explanation:

The hand washing procedure is effective in breaking the chain of infection at several points, mainly by targeting the mode of transmission. When hands are thoroughly washed with soap and water, the microorganisms that may be present on the skin are removed, which prevents them from being transferred to another person or surface. This reduces the risk of transmitting infections such as flu, coronavirus disease, and the common cold, which can be spread via contaminated hands touching the nose, mouth, or eyes. Hand washing also addresses the portal of entry link in the chain of infection, as it minimizes the opportunity for pathogens to enter the body.

Proper hand hygiene involves using soap and warm running water, following a procedure that includes scrubbing all surfaces of the hands for a recommended duration to ensure all pathogens are effectively removed. Emphasizing the importance of regular and thorough hand washing can lead to health education programs that help in breaking the chain of infection and reducing the risk of spreading infectious diseases.