Northeast Sanitation Blog

With the current outbreak in Europe, of E.coli in humans, this message needs to be reinforced. As of June 6, 2011, case counts confirmed by Germany include over 3000 sick, 642 patients with HUS - a type of kidney failure that is associated with E. coli or STEC infections - and 15 deaths. Transmission is through food or water contaminated with human or animal feces. Person-to-person transmission may also occur, but is likely to be less common.

One of the greatest forms of transferring the bacteria is through the absence of hand washing.  The CDC has listed basic, common-sense advice:  Wash your hands thoroughly after using the bathroom or changing diapers and before preparing or eating food. Wash your hands after contact with animals or their environments (at farms, petting zoos, fairs, outdoor events).

The CDC is also aware that hand washing with soap and water may not always be available and therefore encourage the use of a hand sanitizer.   Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of germs on them. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer.

The CDC stresses the need for hand washing and hand sanitizer. The above information was provided by: Portable Sanitation Association International.

If you do not have hand washing facilities or hand sanitizers, please contact NSC Restrooms regarding portable hand washing stations. The need is greater than the small cost.