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Chemical Reaction: The Power of Soap
By: Steve Herman
Posted: October 7, 2008, from the October 2008 issue of GCI Magazine.
page 3 of 3
One of the big risks is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). The University of Virginia Hospital virtually eliminated MRSA, and Veterans Hospital in Pittsburgh reduced its infection rate by 85% through programs that require medical personnel to wash their hands before seeing a patient. The hospitals also make sure staffers wear clean uniforms, that all equipment is carefully cleaned, and that hospital rooms are scrubbed after each patient.
Our industry has products and the marketing knowledge that can save millions of lives, and both are critical for success. Between one and three million children a year can be saved just by manipulating hand washing behavior. Val Curtis, studying hygiene, disgust and human behavior, with the support of our industry and the humble soap bar, is saving many of them now.
References
- www.cdc.gov/ounceofprevention
- www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=64316
- C Duhigg, Warning: Habits May Be Good for You, The New York Times, (Jul 13, 2008)
- www.globalhandwashing.org
