Why is hand washing important?
Hand washing is important because it helps to remove germs and bacteria from our hands. These microorganisms can cause illnesses such as the common cold, flu, and even more severe infections like COVID-19. By washing our hands frequently, we can significantly reduce the risk of spreading these diseases to others and keep ourselves healthy.
When should you wash your hands?
You should wash your hands in the following situations:
- Before and after preparing food
- Before eating
- After using the restroom
- After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
- After handling garbage
- After touching animals or their waste
- After caring for someone who is sick
What is the correct hand washing technique?
Follow these steps for effective hand washing:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water.
- Apply enough soap to cover all hand surfaces.
- Rub your hands together to create a lather. Make sure to scrub all surfaces, including between your fingers, under your nails, and the backs of your hands.
- Continue scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice from beginning to end!
- Rinse your hands thoroughly under running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dryer.
- If possible, use the towel to turn off the faucet to avoid recontamination.
Is hand sanitizer an effective alternative?
Hand sanitizer is an effective alternative to hand washing when soap and water are not readily available. Look for hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content to ensure their effectiveness. However, it’s important to note that hand sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs, especially those that are resistant to alcohol-based disinfectants. Therefore, regular hand washing is still the preferred method for complete hand hygiene.
Hand washing is a simple yet powerful practice that everyone should adhere to. By following the proper hand washing techniques and washing our hands regularly, we can protect ourselves and others from harmful germs and diseases. Remember, clean hands save lives!