What is the recommended action to prevent the spread of communicable diseases?

Washing hands regularly is widely considered one of the most effective methods for preventing the spread of communicable diseases. This practice helps remove pathogens that may be present on the hands, which is particularly important in environments where germs can easily be transmitted, such as crowded public settings or healthcare facilities. Regular hand washing, especially with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, significantly decreases the likelihood of transferring viruses and bacteria to oneself or others.

While other options may contribute to reducing the risk of disease transmission, they don't serve as a comprehensive preventive measure as effectively as regular hand washing does. Using hand sanitizer can be helpful when soap and water are unavailable, but it is not a substitute for thorough hand washing. Avoiding close contact with passengers might reduce the risk of transmission, yet it does not address the potential spread of germs through surfaces and other indirect means. Wearing gloves can provide a barrier, but they don't eliminate the need for hand hygiene and can lead to a false sense of security, especially if gloves are not used properly or are not changed frequently. Therefore, consistent hand washing remains the cornerstone of infection control.