What is used as a first line of defense against infections?

Handwashing is recognized as the first line of defense against infections because it effectively removes pathogens and prevents their spread. This simple yet powerful practice helps to interrupt the transmission of infectious agents from one person to another and from contaminated surfaces to individuals. Regular and thorough handwashing can significantly reduce the incidence of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, making it a key public health measure.

While hospitalization, vaccination, and antibiotics are important components of infection control and management, they come into play at different stages. Hospitalization is a response to severe illness, vaccination is a preventative measure that takes time to create immunity, and antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections after they occur. In contrast, handwashing can be done proactively and frequently, making it a straightforward and universally applicable method for reducing infection risk.