Which action is recommended to prevent diarrheal diseases in the field?

• A. Washing hands before eating and after latrine
• B. Drinking from unapproved sources
• C. Not washing utensils
• D. Not washing hands

Answer: (A)

Hand hygiene is the most effective practice to prevent diarrheal diseases in field settings. Washing hands with soap before eating and after using the latrine removes pathogens from the hands and interrupts fecal-oral transmission, the main way diarrheal pathogens spread. In the field, scrub all hand surfaces for about 20 seconds with soap and clean water, then rinse and dry with a clean towel or air dry. If water is scarce, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is a good alternative, though soap and water remain preferable when available. This action directly reduces exposure to diarrheal pathogens, which is why it’s recommended. Drinking from unapproved sources introduces waterborne pathogens, not washing utensils allows contamination to persist, and not washing hands increases the risk of transmission.