To keep your hands clean, wash them thoroughly with soap and water using the proper technique.
Here's a step-by-step guide to effective handwashing:
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Wet your hands: Use clean, running water. The temperature (warm or cold) isn't critical.
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Apply soap: Use enough soap to cover all hand surfaces.
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Lather Well: Rub your hands together vigorously to create a good lather.
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Scrub Thoroughly: Scrub all surfaces of your hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Do this for at least 20 seconds. A good way to time this is by humming the "Happy Birthday" song twice from beginning to end.
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Rinse Well: Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water.
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Dry Your Hands: Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them. If using a public restroom, paper towels are generally a more sanitary option than shared cloth towels.
Why is Handwashing Important?
- Reduces the Spread of Germs: Handwashing significantly reduces the spread of bacteria, viruses, and other germs that can cause illness.
- Prevents Illness: Regular handwashing helps prevent respiratory infections (like colds and flu) and diarrheal diseases.
- Protects Others: By keeping your hands clean, you protect yourself and those around you from getting sick.
When Should You Wash Your Hands?
- Before, during, and after preparing food.
- Before eating food.
- After using the toilet.
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- After touching garbage.
- After touching animals or animal waste.
- Before and after caring for someone who is sick.
- Anytime your hands look or feel dirty.
By following these steps and practicing frequent handwashing, you can effectively maintain hand hygiene and protect your health and the health of others.
