Germs cause illnesses and diseases, and they are found on objects, surfaces and people. As you touch people or things others have touched, your hands collect germs. You may spread those germs to people by touching them or infect yourself with a virus by touching your eyes, mouth or nose. Washing your hands helps reduce your risk of becoming sick and keeps you from spreading germs and diseases to those around you.
When to Wash
Prevent the spread of germs, bacteria and viruses by washing your hands before you handle food and prepare meals. Cleanse your hands after you've touched food, especially raw meats and poultry. Remember the advice your mother gave you, and wash your hands before you eat food or snacks. Stop the spread of colds and other illnesses by washing your hands after you blow your nose, after coughing or sneezing, and if they come in contact with bodily fluids. Always wash your hands before and after you have cared for a sick person or cleaned a wound. Cleanse your hands after you've gone to the bathroom, and always wash up after changing diapers and helping younger kids use the potty. Wash your hands before you insert or remove your contact lenses. Have kids wash their hands before naps and bed time, especially if they tend to suck their thumbs while sleeping. And always wash your hands whenever they become soiled or dirty.
Handwashing Instructions and Tips
Begin washing your hands by wetting them with clean, warm, running water. Choose either a bar or liquid or powdered soap and rub your hands together quickly to produce lather. Scrub all of the areas of your hands, including the palms, the backs of your hands, the wrists, between your fingers and around and under your nails. Rub your hands together rapidly for approximately 20 seconds. Have kids sing a simple song like "Happy Birthday" or "Row, Row, Row Your Boat" twice to be certain they wash their hands for the proper amount of time. Rinse your hands well in the warm water and dry your hands with a disposable paper towel or a clean hand towel. When possible, turn the water faucets off with the paper towel or the hand towel.
When You Can't Wash
Alcohol-based sanitizers are an alternative to washing with soap and water. According to MayoClinic.com, make sure the hand sanitizer you choose has an alcohol content of at least 60 percent. Apply hand sanitizer to your palm, using enough of the product to completely saturate your hands. Rub your hands together, making sure to cover all parts of the hand, for approximately 25 seconds or until the hand sanitizer is absorbed and your hands are dry. Moist antibacterial towelettes and wipes may also be used to cleanse your hands, but they are not as effective as hand sanitizer or soap and water.
