December 6th – 12th is National Handwashing Awareness Week!

Handwashing has always been important, but it is especially crucial now as we enter into flu season and as COVID-19 continues to spread. Washing your hands regularly can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, but it’s important to be sure you are washing your hands correctly. A quick rinse isn’t enough to kill the germs.

Why is handwashing important?

• You frequently touch your eyes, nose and mouth without even realizing you are doing so. These are all entry points for germs.
• Germs from unwashed hands can get into foods and drinks and multiply, making people sick.
• Unwashed hands allow germs to spread on surfaces such as door handles, toys, tables, etc.
• Diarrheal and respiratory infections commonly spread through unclean hands.

Effective Handwashing 

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