A year ago we were all worried about bird flu.
I don't know how some of you manage to keep your hands dry, mine get wet every time I change poles.
I have yet to master the technique of using those little connectors without wetting my gloves, if I try and disconnect them with my hand underneath, I get an eye or ear full guaranteed.
The Harris pole will make your hands black, that's why I wear gloves even in the summer, maybe a coating of clear lacquer or the heat shrink stuff would prevent that.
As for suntan, I am definitely two tone, every thing at the back is brown whilst the front is a lot paler.
As for washing your hands, well there is no shortage of pure water, anyway a bit of bird poo should help keep your immune system topped up nicely.