Nearly eight months in, we all should know to was our hands often. Not only often but for at least 20 seconds. Understandably, a lot of us have become complacent and tired of taking such precautions. This coupled with the continued scarcity of hand sanitizer has led a lot us to minimize the actual importance of sanitizing and hand washing. Hand hygiene has always been important but never has it been this crucial to public safety.
Follow Five Steps to Wash Your Hands the Right Way
Washing your hands is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community—from your home and workplace to childcare facilities and hospitals.
Follow these five steps every time.
- 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.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
When to wash your hands:
- Immediately after removing gloves and after contact with a person who is sick.
- After blowing one’s nose, coughing, or sneezing
- After using the restroom
- Before eating or preparing food
- After contact with animals or pets
- Before and after providing routine care for another person who needs assistance
