Here's why:
* Gloves can become contaminated: Gloves can become contaminated just like bare hands. Touching surfaces with contaminated gloves spreads germs.
* Gloves can have unseen holes: Tiny punctures or tears in gloves can allow germs to pass through.
* "Glove sweating" creates a breeding ground: The warm, moist environment inside gloves can promote bacterial growth.
* False sense of security: Wearing gloves can lead to a false sense of security, causing people to be less diligent about hygiene practices.
* Incorrect removal can contaminate hands: Improperly removing gloves can transfer contaminants onto the hands.
* Hand washing removes germs; gloves only provide a barrier (that can fail): Hand washing with soap and water physically removes germs from the skin. Gloves are simply a barrier and do not remove germs.
When to use gloves *and* wash hands:
Gloves are appropriate in certain situations *in addition to* hand washing, such as:
* Healthcare: To protect healthcare workers from exposure to blood and bodily fluids.
* Food Handling: To prevent contamination of food products.
* Cleaning: To protect hands from harsh chemicals.
Key Takeaway:
Hand washing is the most important step in preventing the spread of germs. Gloves can provide an additional barrier in certain situations, but they are never a replacement for thorough hand washing. Always wash your hands before putting on gloves and after taking them off.