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HANDWASHING TIPS

The quantity and variety of germs that we carry on our hands everyday are astounding. And, unfortunately, a few of these can cause illnesses like diarrhea, colds and other, more serious, sometimes even life-threatening, diseases. When we forget to wash our hands, or don't wash our hands correctly, we can spread these germs to other people.

Handwashing, when done correctly, can help us stay healthy and avoid spreading and receiving germs. Following are some simple tips to help you remember when and how to wash your hands.

WHEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR HANDS?

Before you:

Prepare or eat food

Treat a cut or wound or tend to someone who is sick

Insert or remove contact lenses

After you

Go to the bathroom

Handle uncooked foods, particularly raw meat, poultry or fish

Change a diaper

Blow your nose, cough or sneeze

Play with or touch a pet, particularly reptiles and exotic animals

Handle garbage

Tend to someone sick or injured

HOW SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR HANDS?

How you wash your hands is just as important as when you wash them, especially when it comes to eliminating germs. Just rinsing them quickly is not enough. When you wash your hands:

Use soap and warm, running water

Wash all surfaces thoroughly, including wrists, palms, back of hands, fingers and under fingernails

Rub hands together for at least 10 to 15 seconds

When drying, if possible, use a clean or disposable towel. Pat your skin rather then rubbing to avoid chapping and cracking

Apply hand lotion after washing to help prevent or soothe dry skin

REMEMBER TO WASH YOUR HANDS!

Remembering to wash your hands correctly is the first step toward staying healthy.

When you wash your hands, wash them thoroughly with soap and hot water.