May 4, 2007

Washing your hands regularly is the single most important way to prevent the spread of germs. Avoid getting sick by following these tips:

When to Wash

• Before eating
• Before, during and after handling or preparing food
• After contact with blood or bodily fluids
• After changing a diaper — wash the child’s hands as well
• After using the bathroom
• After handling animals, their toys, leashes or waste
• After touching something that could be contaminated (such as a trash can, cleaning cloth, drain, etc.)
• Before dressing a wound, giving medicine or inserting contact lenses
• More often when someone in your home is sick

How to Wash

• Wet your hands and apply soap.
• Rub hands together vigorously — don’t forget areas like between your fingers and under your nails.
• Continue for 20 seconds.
• Rinse hands well under running water.
• Dry your hands using a paper towel or air dryer.
• If possible, use your paper towel to turn off the faucet.
• Teach your children to frequently wash their hands as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children who wash their hands four times a day have 24 percent fewer sick days due to respiratory illness and 51 percent fewer sick days due to upset stomach.

In cases where soap and water are not immediately available, use an alcohol-based wipe or hand gel. The alcohol in the product kills the bacteria on your hands.