Open AccessLessons from COVID-19 in South Africa: Keeping our environment clean should be the first law of health
Author(s) -
Sarentha Chetty,
Varsha Bangalee
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
south african family practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2078-6204
pISSN - 2078-6190
DOI - 10.4102/safp.v63i1.5297
Subject(s) - medicine , hygiene , covid-19 , pandemic , public health , environmental health , infectious disease (medical specialty) , disease , nursing , virology , outbreak , pathology
In the wake of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the links between poor hygiene, unclean environments and human health cannot be overemphasised, particularly in South Africa with its high incidence of infectious diseases and overburdened health system. One very controllable factor that is often overlooked is the poor disposal of litter and waste management and its adverse effects on public health. By wearing masks, regular handwashing and sanitising, as well as making sure that neighbourhoods and public spaces are clean and safe, the spread of COVID-19 and other diseases can be prevented.