Glow in the Dark Germs

Handwashing has been getting a lot of press lately, and thanks to GloGerm, it’s never been so fun.

Concern over the H1N1 virus has brought heightened awareness to the importance of keeping hands clean, which according to the Centers for Disease Control is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of infection and illness. That’s why Superintendent Donald Fiftal and Health Director David Knauf are introducing GloGerm to Darien’s elementary schools.

GloGerm, first developed in 1968, uses a powder or gel and an ultra-violet lamp to illuminate the effectiveness of hand-washing practices. Like real germs, the simulated plastic “germs” are invisible to the naked eye; but under the UV lamp, the GloGerms turn brilliant blue. (See photographs to see GloGerm in action.)

Knauf said he’s been a longtime fan of GloGerm and that with the expected resurgence of swine flu, now seemed an apropos time to introduce the system to the schools.

“Hand sanitation is important, and GloGerm helps boost that concept,” he said. “It’s a memorable experience. I mean, the thing glows!”

Fiftal agreed.

“I’ve been a teacher for 14 years. When David showed me the kit, I knew this would be a fun activity, and a fun way to practice hand washing.”

The original plan was to introduce the GloGerm kits to the Kindergarten classrooms, as Darien’s youngest students are among the high-risk groups for contracting infection. But Fiftal said it wasn’t long before word of GloGerm got around.

“The principals were very supportive, and when the teachers of the older kids became aware of it, they wanted it too.”

Purse strings are tight this year, but Fiftal said the GloGerm system is within the Board of Education’s activities budget. A kit costs about $100, and each elementary school will receive one kit plus backup supplies. As for where and when the kits are used, Fiftal said he’s leaving that decision to the Principals and teachers.

Clean hands prevent infections. Here are some proper-handwashing tips from the CDC:

• Wet your hands with clean, warm running water and apply soap
• Rub hands together to make a lather and scrub all surfaces
• Continue rubbing hands for 15-20 seconds ( Need a timer? Sing "Happy Birthday")
• Rinse hands well
• Dry your hands with a clean paper towel or air dryer
• If possible, use your paper towel to turn off the faucet