$Unique_ID{BRK00731}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What Diseases Can be Transmitted by Shaking Hands?}
$Subject{infection transmission handshake Infections Shaking Hands lifestyle
lifestyles casual contact}
$Volume{A-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Diseases Can be Transmitted by Shaking Hands?


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QUESTION:  We're obligated during our church services to shake hands with the
people around us.  I have no problem with this except when the people have
been sneezing or coughing into their hand for half an hour, and without even
bothering to wipe it off, extend it to me.  I am wondering if after shaking
this person's hand I wipe my eye or blow my nose, can I get what this person
has?  And if so, what diseases can be transmitted this way?

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ANSWER:  I wonder how many other people have thought about this?  I certainly
found your concern understandable and reasonable.  I doubt that you can refuse
the handshake of fellowship during a service, so let's look at some of the
things you might do.  First, keep your own hands away from your eyes, and if
you feel the need to blow your nose, use your own handkerchief or tissues.
You might feel a bit better if you placed your hand in your pocket after the
handshake and managed to wipe it off on the handkerchief you had placed there
before church.  It probably won't be of much value, but it can help your
mental state.  There are probably no serious diseases that can be transmitted
in the manner you describe, although the common cold is said to be one of the
illnesses that are frequently passed on in this manner.  Any individual in
reasonably good health has the necessary defense mechanisms to prevent a
casual contact of this nature from developing into an infection of any
importance.  As to diseases other than infectious, such as tumors, cancers, or
growths, there is no evidence that a handshake can transmit the disease.  Last
but not least, and though you did not pose this as a part of your question, I
believe it important to state that AIDS cannot be transmitted in this fashion
either.  Accept the gesture of good will and fellowship in the manner it is
intended, hopefully relieved of some of your anxiety by this answer.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.