In many households, one person catches the flu or a viral infection, and within a few days, others in the family begin showing symptoms. But the spread of infection at home isn’t inevitable. With the right hygiene practices and preventive measures, it’s possible to protect the rest of the household.

India Today spoke with Savlon to get more inputs on this topic and understand how regular surface disinfection plays a critical role in stopping the spread of illness indoors.

HOW GERMS TRAVEL INSIDE A HOME

Germs don’t just stay on the body of the sick individual. Everyday actions like coughing, sneezing, or even casual contact can transmit bacteria and viruses. These can land on people, pets, and common household surfaces such as kitchen sinks, doorknobs, remote controls, countertops, curtains, and furniture. These germs may survive for hours—or even days—making shared spaces a silent carrier of infection.

ONE EASY HABIT THAT MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE

While cleaning removes dirt, disinfection is what truly kills germs. This becomes especially important when someone in the household is sick. Regularly disinfecting surfaces adds an extra layer of protection by targeting illness-causing microbes that cleaning alone may miss.

An effective disinfectant spray can be used on both hard and soft surfaces: from table tops and chairs to shower taps, mattresses, curtains, and car interiors. Using it daily—especially in shared spaces—can significantly reduce the risk of infection spreading.

THE HIDDEN HOTSPOTS YOU SHOULDN’T MISS

Some surfaces are more prone to contamination due to frequent contact. Pay close attention to:

• Doorknobs and handles

• Dining tables, desks, and countertops

• Toilet areas, including flush handles and taps

• Sofas, beds, chairs, and carpets

• Car interiors, especially steering wheels and door handles

• These should be disinfected at least once or twice a day during periods of illness in the home.

EFFECTIVE STEPS TO PREVENT INFECTION SPREAD

To limit transmission and protect others, consider these simple but impactful measures:

• Assign separate towels, utensils, and water bottles to the ill person

• Use disposable tissues and masks to reduce the spread via respiratory droplets

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces multiple times a day

• Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, with unwashed hands

• These steps are easy to implement and highly effective when followed consistently.

BECAUSE CARE BEGINS AT HOME

Maintaining a clean, sanitised home is your first and most powerful line of defense. It helps protect everyone in the household, especially when one member is unwell. By being more mindful and consistent with hygiene and disinfection habits, you can stop illnesses from spreading—and ensure that one person’s sickness doesn’t become a shared burden for the whole family.

– Ends