handwashing

Handwashing is the act of cleaning hands to remove dirt, germs, and other contaminants. Proper hand hygiene helps prevent the spread of many infections and is a simple, widely recommended public health measure.

Technique: Wet hands with clean running water, apply soap, and lather for at least 20 seconds. Scrub all surfaces of the hands, including palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and under fingernails. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel or air dry.

When to wash: before preparing or eating food; after using the toilet; after coughing, sneezing, or blowing the nose; after handling garbage or animals; after touching potentially contaminated surfaces in public places; and whenever hands are visibly dirty.

Or use hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can reduce germs. Sanitizers are less effective on visibly dirty or greasy hands and do not remove chemicals as well as soap.

Notes: Handwashing is emphasized in healthcare, food service, schools, and households. Consistent practice reduces illness-related absences and the transmission of respiratory and diarrheal diseases.