The Importance of Handwashing

Imagine this: You are sitting next to your friend and working on a project in class. You notice your friend has been sneezing and coughing quite a bit. One time, he sneezes without covering his nose and mouth. Shortly after, you feel an itch on your nose, and before you have washed your hands, you decide to scratch it. A few days later, you are coughing and sneezing just like your friend! Oh no!

How could this have been avoided?

There are many ways to protect yourself and others from getting sick, which include learning the right way to cough (yes, there is a right way!), knowing when to stay home, and the most important form of protection – washing your hands! Handwashing can help prevent the spread of germs from one person to another and keep us healthy.

You cannot see germs just by looking, but they are found everywhere! They can be on hands, toys, flat surfaces, and so much more. When you touch an area that has germs, they stick to your hands, and it can be very easy to spread them to others, making people sick. This is why handwashing is so important!

When is the best time to wash your hands? • Before and after touching food or eating • Before and after touching your face • After being outside or touching an animal • After using the restroom • After coughing or sneezing • After being around someone who is sick • After touching any surface in a public space • Any time you notice your hands are dirty

These are just some examples of the most important times for handwashing, but there are many opportunities to do so!

Is there a right way to wash your hands? Yes! The best way to wash your hands is to wet them with running water, apply soap, and rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Pay close attention to the backs of your hands, in between the fingers, and under each nail. Germs like to hang out in these areas of the hands! Once you are done rubbing the soap in, rinse your hands thoroughly and dry them with a clean paper towel.

A helpful tip is to sing the Happy Birthday song twice – this should be enough time to wash your hands properly.

What happens if you choose not to wash your hands for the full 20 seconds?

This is extremely important because washing for less than 20 seconds could leave germs on the hands and lead you to spread illness to yourself or someone else. Scrubbing the hands together with soap and water for the full 20 seconds really helps to remove the dirt and germs.

Other important things to keep in mind: There may be times when you are not near running water or soap. If this happens, it is ok to use hand sanitizer to clean your hands, but remember that handwashing is more effective. Sometimes, washing your hands can make them dry. Using a soothing lotion or cream after handwashing can help keep your hands clean and moisturized.

Think of handwashing as your own personal superpower! You have the power to keep yourself and others healthy and germ-free just by keeping your hands clean. Here’s to scrubbing those pesky germs away!