Research shows that fist bumps, which is the knocking of knuckles, spreads only 1/20th the amount of bacteria than a handshake does. Dr. Konig is always interested in staying healthy, and not spreading unnecessary germs, so he wants to spread the news! This is better than a high five, which spreads less than half the germs than a handshake… So though handshakes seem demur and professional, you make want to think twice about your greeting of choice!
The heath article done by the Associated Press suggests the fist bump may be the wisest form of greeting during cold and flu season. Mary Lou Manning of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control & Epidemiology isn’t surprised by the results of the study, but still she has not seen much fist-bumping or high fiving in hospitals. It may be a casual and trendy way to meet and greet, but also a smart way to stay healthy.
Professionally, our office is always concerned about the spreading of germs and stays up to date on infection control. Personally, when working out at the gym, Dr. Konig sees a lot of fist bumping and also do the same; however, it has been more of a fad than for sanitary reasons. All in all an interesting study, and maybe an emerging trend for sanitary reasons as well.
If you have any questions about Houston Cosmetic Dentistry, please feel free to contact our office, Ronald W. Konig DDS, FAGD, LVIF, FIAPA
