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Dec 07
2021

The purpose of this observance was to educate people on the importance of good hand hygiene and the proper techniques to follow.

National Handwashing Awareness Week is celebrated during the first full week of December. This year, it was held on December 6th thru 12th.

As important as handwashing has always been, it’s especially crucial now. Washing your hands regularly can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including the novel coronavirus. But it’s important to make sure you’re washing correctly. A quick rinse isn’t enough to kill germs.

Tips for Effective Handwashing

A quick rinse under warm water isn’t enough to get your hands clean. Here are five steps to follow EVERY time you wash your hands.

• Wet your hands with clean running water.
• Lather the hands with soap and rub them together.
• Scrub your hands for 20 seconds.
• Rinse your hands with clean running water.
• Dry your hands with a clean towel.

The best times to wash your hands are before, during and after preparing food, after using the toilet, before and after caring for someone who is sick and after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. You’ll notice that our home health aides are diligent with handwashing this cold and flu season!