As integral to the British summer as unpredictable weather, music festivals attract thousands of enthusiasts each year. With the draw of live performances, the camaraderie of fellow attendees, and the overall sense of freedom that these events bring, it is no surprise that many festival-goers let their personal hygiene habits slip. However, a recent survey has revealed a troubling trend: one in five 18- to 24-year-olds neglect to wash their hands at festivals.
Concerning Survey Findings
A 2023 survey of 1,500 young festival attendees in the UK revealed some alarming statistics. A significant 22% admitted to not washing their hands at all during the festival, regardless of how long they were there. Additionally, 26% reported washing their hands only once a day, while 31% neglected hand hygiene even after using the toilet. The main reasons cited for this lapse were long queues for washing facilities or an outright lack of such amenities.
These findings align with broader research on hand hygiene habits. Studies have shown that even in environments where facilities are readily available, only 51% of people wash their hands after using the toilet. A separate study during the COVID-19 pandemic found that just 42% of university students in the UK reported “mostly” or “always” adhering to handwashing recommendations.
Underlying Issues
The reluctance to wash hands at festivals goes beyond the mere absence of facilities. Many young adults, particularly those aged 18 to 25, hold misconceptions about hand hygiene. Research conducted in Canada in 2022 found that some in this age group believed washing hands in dirty facilities would leave them more contaminated than not washing at all. Others simply “forgot” to wash their hands, while some displayed “unrealistic optimism,” assuming infections were unlikely to affect them.
The Importance of Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene is not a trivial matter; it is a critical practice that can prevent a range of infectious diseases, from diarrhoea and respiratory infections to the flu. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of regular and thorough handwashing. The friction from rubbing hands with soap and water removes physical dirt and harmful bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of illness.
For festival-goers, maintaining hand hygiene is essential. Dirty hands can quickly derail the fun, leading to illnesses that could have been easily prevented. To tackle the issue of inadequate facilities, festival attendees should consider these practical tips:
- Pack Hand Sanitiser: Carry alcohol-based hand gel at all times. Although not effective against all pathogens, such as norovirus, it is highly efficient at killing most bacteria and viruses. The habit of carrying hand sanitiser, popularised during the pandemic, should continue, ensuring that clean hands are just a squirt away.
- Prioritise Handwashing After Toileting: Festival toilets, used by hundreds if not thousands of people, are breeding grounds for germs. Thorough handwashing after using these facilities is non-negotiable to avoid infections.
- Clean Hands Before Eating: Festival food often involves finger foods like burgers and pizza. To prevent gastrointestinal issues, ensure hands are sanitised before meals.
- Use Bottled Water: For those who prefer water over gel, use bottled water to rinse hands. While not as effective as soap and water, this method can remove visible dirt and some bacteria. Many festivals provide water refill stations, making this a viable option.
- Sanitise Water Bottles: Water bottles themselves can harbour bacteria. A quick rinse and rub when refilling can mitigate this risk.
For Organisers and Food Vendors
Festival organisers play a crucial role in promoting hand hygiene. Strategically placed handwash reminder stickers at food outlets, portaloos, and water taps can serve as effective prompts. Additionally, food vendors should offer hand sanitiser at counters, a small but significant gesture given the high prices of festival fare.
Addressing the hand hygiene issue at festivals requires a combined effort from both attendees and organisers. Young festival-goers must be reminded that infections can and do happen to them, and practising good hand hygiene is essential to staying healthy and enjoying the festival experience to the fullest. Organisers should facilitate easier access to handwashing facilities and continue to promote hygiene practices.
As festivals remain a cherished part of British culture, ensuring that hand hygiene becomes an integral part of the experience is crucial. Remember the mantra: clean hands, avoid infections, and keep the fun – not the germs – flowing.
