Each year on October 15th, Global Handwashing Day, highlights the importance of handwashing with soap and water, especially during key times throughout the day.
Why it’s important?
Handwashing with soap and water is one of the simplest, most effective ways to stop the spread of germs and stay healthy. Keeping hands clean can help prevent diarrheal illnesses and respiratory infections, such as the common cold or flu. studies have shown that handwashing can prevent 1 in 3 diarrhoea-related sicknesses and 1 in 5 respiratory infections, such as a cold or flu.
5 Steps to handwashing
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them
Key times to wash your hand
- Before eating lunch or preparing food
- After using the bathroom
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
For more information click the link: Global Handwashing Day – The Global Handwashing Partnership