Article Summary:
Simple handwashing is one of the easiest and most effective methods of preventing the spread of infection.
When we forget to wash our hands, or do not wash our hands correctly, we can spread these germs to other individuals . Washing your hands correctly and frequently
Article Content:
Handwashing
Simple handwashing is one of the easiest and most effective methods of preventing the spread of infection.
When we forget to wash our hands, or do not wash our hands correctly, we can spread these germs to other individuals . Washing your hands correctly and frequently is the first step toward staying healthful and can help us avoid spreading and receiving germs.
How?
How you wash your hands is just as important as when you wash them, specifically when it comes to eliminating germs. Just rinsing hands quickly isn’t enough. Follow these steps when you wash your hands
1. WET your hands with warm water.
2. APPLY plenty of SOAP.
3. SCRUB your hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Wash the front and back of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails. Scrubbing your hands together loosens germs and dirt and permits them to be washed away.
4. RINSE your hands.
5. DRY your hands with a paper towel.
6. TURN OFF THE WATER with a paper towel.
How do you know you’ve scrubbed your hands for 20 seconds?
Attempt singing “Happy Birthday” to yourself twice while washing your hands.
Plain soap and water are best! You do not need to use antibacterial soaps, regular soap and water will kill up to 99.9 percent of common germs on your hands. If you do not have soap and water available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
When?
o Before, during, and after you prepare food — particularly raw meat, poultry, seafood products, eggs, and fresh produce
o Before you eat
o Before and after changing a baby’s diaper
o After you use the bathroom
o After handling animals or animal waste
o After sneezing, coughing, or using a handkerchief or tissue
o After touching any part of the body
o After handling garbage or trash
o Whenever your hands are dirty
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