How germs spread
Finding out how germs are spread gives you the best chance of combating them.
Germs can be spread by:
- Person to person contact.
- Contact with animals.
- Touching contaminated surfaces and objects.
- Expelling germs by coughing and sneezing.
People
Patients, visitors and healthcare staff can all carry germs on their skin, clothing, shoes and possessions.Contaminated surfaces
Floors, tables, handles, switches, taps, seats/ chairs, fabric, bathroom surfaces, food preparation surfaces and appliances can all harbour germs. Objects and possessions like telephones, remotes and books can also be contaminated. These pathogens can then be transferred upon touch.
