MONROVIA – As the Liberia National Police enforce a mandate requiring all motorcyclists to wear helmets, the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has issued a set of hygiene guidelines aimed at reducing the potential health risks associated with infectious diseases among motorcycle passengers. Given that motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation in Liberia, these measures are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of both riders and passengers.
To mitigate the spread of infectious diseases, NPHIL recommends that all motorcyclists and passengers adhere to the following effective hygiene practices:
- Helmet Cleaning: Motorcyclists should regularly clean their helmets using disinfectant spray, doing so in between passenger use, daily, weekly, and monthly.
- Glove Placement: Motorcyclists should avoid placing their gloves inside the helmet to prevent contamination.
- Head Covering: Passengers should consider covering their heads before wearing a helmet to reduce direct contact with the helmet’s interior.
- Nose Masks: Passengers may choose to wear a nose mask for additional protection against airborne pathogens.
- Personal Helmets and Sanitizer: Passengers who frequently travel by motorcycle should consider carrying their own helmet and sanitizer spray for personal use.
NPHIL emphasized its commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance public health and safety. The institute will continue to collaborate with the Liberia National Police (LNP) to monitor the impact of these guidelines and address any emerging health concerns.
By following these practices, NPHIL aims to create a safer environment for motorcyclists and passengers, helping to curb the spread of infectious diseases and protect public health.