In our fast-paced and interconnected world, maintaining proper hygiene is not just a personal choice but a collective responsibility. Public spaces are shared environments where our actions can have far-reaching consequences, affecting the health and well-being of those around us. Unfortunately, many individuals unknowingly engage in unhygienic personal behaviors that can contribute to the spread of germs and illnesses. In this article, we’ll explore five unsanitary practices that should be avoided in public spaces, shedding light on their potential risks and providing guidance on how to break these disgusting habits that spread germs.
Habit 1: Not Washing Hands After Using the Restroom
One of the most unhygienic personal behaviors that should be avoided in public is failing to wash hands after using the restroom. This disgusting personal habit can contribute to the spread of various illnesses, including gastrointestinal infections, respiratory diseases, and skin infections.
Public restrooms are breeding grounds for a wide range of bacteria and viruses, many of which can be easily transmitted through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. By neglecting to wash your hands properly with soap and water, you increase the risk of transferring these harmful pathogens to other surfaces or individuals you come into contact with.
To break this habit, make it a personal rule to always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after using the restroom. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as a temporary solution, but remember that it is not a substitute for proper hand washing.
Habit 2: Sneezing or Coughing Without Covering Your Mouth
Sneezing or coughing without covering your mouth is another unsanitary practice that should be avoided in public spaces. When we sneeze or cough, we expel droplets of saliva and mucus into the air, which can contain harmful viruses and bacteria. These droplets can travel several feet and can potentially infect others who come into contact with them.
Failing to cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing not only increases the risk of spreading illnesses but also demonstrates a lack of consideration for those around you. It’s important to remember that some individuals may have weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions that make them more susceptible to infections.
To break this habit, always carry a clean tissue or handkerchief with you and use it to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. If you don’t have a tissue handy, use the crook of your elbow to catch the sneeze or cough. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings and try to turn away from others when sneezing or coughing to minimize the spread of droplets.
Habit 3: Picking Your Nose in Public
Picking your nose in public is not only unhygienic but also considered socially unacceptable and disrespectful to those around you. This disgusting personal habit can lead to the transfer of germs and bacteria from your hands to your nasal passages, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and other illnesses.
Moreover, picking your nose in public can be seen as unsightly and offensive to others, particularly in shared spaces such as restaurants, public transportation, or workplaces. It’s important to remember that public spaces are meant to be enjoyed by everyone, and engaging in such behaviors can negatively impact the experience for others.
To break this habit, make a conscious effort to avoid touching your nose in public unless it’s absolutely necessary, and even then, use a clean tissue or handkerchief. If you find yourself struggling with this habit, try carrying a small pack of tissues or a handkerchief with you to use when the urge arises. Additionally, be mindful of the social cues around you and refrain from engaging in this behavior in the presence of others.
Habit 4: Littering or Not Properly Disposing of Waste
Littering or failing to properly dispose of waste is a disgusting and unhygienic practice that can have far-reaching consequences for public health and the environment. When we litter, we create breeding grounds for pests, bacteria, and other harmful organisms that can spread diseases and contribute to the degradation of our shared spaces.
Public spaces should be kept clean and free from litter to maintain a healthy and aesthetically pleasing environment for everyone. Littering not only creates an eyesore but can also attract pests, clog drainage systems, and harm wildlife.
To break this habit, make a conscious effort to properly dispose of your waste in designated trash cans or recycling bins. If you find yourself in a situation where a trash can is not readily available, hold onto your waste until you can properly dispose of it. Additionally, consider carrying a small reusable bag or container with you to collect any waste you may generate while on the go.
Habit 5: Failing to Cover Food or Drinks While Sneezing or Coughing
Failing to cover your food or drinks while sneezing or coughing is another unsanitary practice that should be avoided in public spaces. When we sneeze or cough, we release droplets of saliva and mucus into the air, which can potentially contaminate any exposed food or beverages nearby.
This disgusting habit not only puts your own health at risk but also endangers others who may consume the contaminated food or drinks. It’s important to remember that some illnesses, such as the flu or common cold, can be easily transmitted through contaminated food or beverages.
To break this habit, make it a practice to always cover your food or drinks with a clean napkin, plate, or lid when sneezing or coughing. If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot cover your food or drinks, it’s best to politely step away from the table or area until the coughing or sneezing subsides.
Notable Others:
While the five habits discussed in this article cover some of the most common and concerning unsanitary practices, there are a few additional behaviors that should be avoided in public spaces:
- Not Properly Disposing of Used Tissues or Napkins: Used tissues or napkins can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses, and leaving them lying around can contribute to the spread of illnesses. Always properly dispose of used tissues or napkins in a trash can.
- Urinating in Public Spaces: Urinating in public spaces is not only unhygienic but also illegal in most areas. This practice can contaminate surfaces and contribute to the spread of diseases. Always use designated restroom facilities when available.
- Not Washing Your Hands After Handling Money: Money can harbor a variety of germs and bacteria, and failing to wash your hands after handling it can lead to the transmission of illnesses. Make a habit of washing your hands or using hand sanitizer after handling cash or coins.
- Failing to Cover Your Mouth When Yawning: While not as concerning as coughing or sneezing, failing to cover your mouth when yawning can still contribute to the spread of germs. Make an effort to cover your mouth with your hand or a tissue when yawning in public.
- Spitting in Public Spaces: Spitting in public spaces is not only unsanitary but also disrespectful to those around you. It can contribute to the spread of illnesses and create an unpleasant environment for others.
By being mindful of these additional unsanitary practices and making a conscious effort to avoid them, you can contribute to a healthier and more hygienic public environment for everyone.
