Hand washing is a simple but effective way to prevent the spread of illness and infection. It is especially important to wash your hands regularly during cold and flu season, or during times when there is an outbreak of a contagious illness.
Here are some tips for effective hand washing:
Wet your hands with warm water and apply soap.
Rub your hands together to create a lather, making sure to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers, and under your nails.
Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.
Rinse your hands thoroughly under running water.
Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
It is important to wash your hands:
After using the bathroom
Before preparing or eating food
After handling raw meat, poultry, or seafood
After touching an animal or animal waste
After sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose
After caring for someone who is sick
In addition to washing your hands regularly, it is also important to use hand sanitizer when you are unable to access soap and water. Hand sanitizer is a convenient and effective alternative, but it is not a substitute for proper hand washing.