National Handwashing Week
About National Handwashing Week
The goal of National Handwashing Awareness Week is to decrease the spread of infectious diseases by empowering individuals to educate and help protect their communities. Working together we can make a difference.
Safety Measures You Can Take
The power is in your hands to help to prevent skin conditions that can be spread through hand contact, as well as common respiratory illnesses including flu, common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, Streptococcus, TB, and more by following good hand washing hygiene.
The T Zone is the only point of entry into the human body for ALL respiratory infections. Practicing the following simple principles of hand awareness behaviors will ensure you stay well and prevent spreading germs to those around you. Although it’s impossible to keep your hands germ-free, washing your hands frequently can help limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses, and other microbes.
To spread the word and not the germs, follow the tips below:
- Wash your hands when they are dirty, before eating, after using the bathroom, while cooking, after touching animals, blowing your nose, coughing and sneezing.
- Wash your hands after treating an injured person.
- Wash your hands after handling garbage, household or garden chemicals, or anything that could be contaminated—such as a cleaning cloth or soiled shoes.
- For parents, set a good example for your children by washing your own hands.
- Do not cough or sneeze into your hands.
- Do not put your fingers into your eyes, nose or mouth.
To Wash Your Hands
- Wet your hands with warm or cold water.
- Apply liquid, bar or powder soap.
- Lather well.
- Rub your hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Remember to scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.
- Rinse well.
- Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dryer.
- If possible, use a towel or your elbow to turn off the faucet
- Keep alcohol-based hand sanitizers, gels or antibacterial wipes on hand for when soap and water are unavailable.
Your Local Skin Experts at Forefront Dermatology are Here to Help
Establishing a relationship with a board-certified dermatologist is an important step you should take to keep your skin healthy, especially if you suffer from an itchy, painful, or irritating skin condition. If you or a family member have a skin concern or would like to schedule a consult, find the Forefront dermatologist nearest you to schedule an appointment or to learn more.