A kiss or a handshake?! Overview for a deep approach

Abstract

Abstract The way we greet each other is often a source of controversy when it comes to microorganisms transmitted. The goal of this research is to give us a comparison of the quantity and type of microorganisms transmitted between a handshake and kisses on the face, first verifying which of these forms transmits more microbiological beings, and subsequently compare the results with the answers given to a questionnaire on hand and face hygiene. With a sample of 23 Portuguese people, without any skin pathology, the sampling type was probabilistic and the sampling technique was simple random. The technique used was through contact plates, containing an enriched medium (TSA), for each individual, a sample was collected by each route - face and hands. First, the microorganisms present in each pathway were counted, and then identified. The average in the face is 75.2 CFU, while in the hands it is 53.9 CFU, thus there is a significant difference between the two. A questionnaire was also used with questions related to hand and face washing. Regarding the count of CFU's on the plates, there was a higher number of microorganisms in the plates used in the face than in the hand. There is a difference between the amount of microorganisms present in the face and palm of the hands, and the first one has a higher score. This difference can be justified by the fact that we wash our hands more often throughout the day relative to the face. Regarding the type of microorganisms found, the vast majority were Staphylococcus spp and Micrococcus. In some of the plaques were present yeast and fungi, and, in smaller quantity, bacilli. To change these values, a good dissemination of information concerning the proliferation of bacteria, viruses and fungi is essential, as well as the dangers they represent. It is important to be aware of the importance of good hygiene of the skin, as a form of protection itself, but also collective, thus contributing to better public health. Key messages Need for good hand and face hygiene. Imperative to conduct more and deep studies about this issue.