Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the risk of illness. While it may seem trivial, proper handwashing is crucial for protecting yourself and the community. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one out of three young children younger than 5 years old get sick from diarrheal illness, and one out of five develop respiratory illness. By following the correct procedure, you can significantly decrease the chances of spreading germs.
How to wash your hands properly
Proper handwashing involves more than just a quick rinse. To thoroughly clean your hands, follow these steps:
1. Wet your hands with clean, running water and apply soap.
2. Lather the soap by rubbing your hands together. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Scrub for at least 20 seconds. Do you need a timer? Hum the “ABCs” or count to 20.
4. Rinse well under clean, running water to remove all soap and dirt.
5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them. Germs can spread more easily on damp hands, so drying is an essential final step. Use the paper towel to turn off the tap and open any public doors if possible.
While hand sanitizer is useful, it should not replace proper handwashing with soap and water.
When to wash your hands
You should wash your hands at key moments throughout the day. These include:
• After using the restroom
• Before eating or preparing food
• After coughing, sneezing, or wiping your nose
• After touching shared objects, like keyboards or public handles
• When caring for someone who is sick
• After handling trash, pet waste or raw food like meat
It is also important to wash your hands before and after touching animals. Consistent handwashing is especially important for healthcare workers, parents, teachers, and those working with the public to protect themselves and others.
Why handwashing matters
Every day, we touch numerous surfaces, from door handles to smartphones, that harbor germs. According to the CDC, proper handwashing can prevent about 30% of diarrheal-related illnesses and about 20% of respiratory illnesses.
These germs can easily be transferred to our hands and, subsequently, to our faces, food, or other people. Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to remove these harmful germs.
In fact, handwashing is essential in preventing the spread of many contagious diseases, including the flu, the common cold, and more serious infections like gastrointestinal illness.
Key takeaways
While handwashing may seem simple, it plays an enormous role in keeping you and those around you healthy. By washing your hands properly at the right times, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting sick.
Remember, it is not just about keeping your own hands clean; it is about protecting the health of the wider community. Simple actions like these can save lives.
For information about services and programs available to you through Carson City Health and Human Services, visit gethealthycarsoncity.org, or call 775-887-2190. You can visit the CCHHS office at 900 E. Long St., in Carson City or follow CCHHS on Facebook at facebook.com/cchhs, or Instagram at GetHealthyCarsonCity.