INTRODUCTION

Disinfection is an act to make sure that the surfaces of the things outside our body are free from any potential disease vector. Our health not only depends on our body’s hygiene, but also our environment’s hygiene. Besides disinfection, there are other hygienic practices that can protect ourselves and our environment.

At the end of this module, you will be able to:

• identify the various disinfection and hygienic practices in their households and communities
• reiterate the process of proper disinfection and personal and household hygiene
• Propose some activities for preventing water-borne diseases in household level
• recognize the importance of hygienic practices and disinfection in preventing communicable diseases;

Understanding of Cleaning, Hygiene and Disinfection

• Cleaning is the mechanical or chemical removal of dirt and soil from the human body, an object or an area.

• Hygiene is the condition/s or practices conducive to maintaining health and preventing disease, especially through cleanliness.

• Disinfection is the targeted use of a disinfectant to help prevent the spread of infection in situations where there is high risk of transmission of harmful microbes.