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Handwashing Helps Prevent Holiday Illnesses

  • Posted On:
  • Written By: Emily James-Wilson
Handwashing Helps Prevent Holiday Illnesses

As the holiday season approaches, everyone is at increased risk of illness due to the public gatherings, communal meals, and outdoor activities traditional for this time of the year. 

Handwashing is the single most important measure to prevent the spread of infection. Studies have shown that handwashing can reduce the incidence of respiratory diseases such as colds and the flu by up to 21 percent!

However, only 5% of people wash their hands correctly, contributing to the spread of illnesses, including COVID-19 and the flu. Watch our video to learn how to wash your hands properly.

Here are more handwashing tips:

When washing hands with soap and water:

  • Wet your hands with clean, running water. Apply soap.
  • Use warm water if it is available.
  • Rub your hands together to make a lather and scrub all surfaces.
  • Continue rubbing your hands for 20 seconds. 
  • Need a timer? Imagine singing "Happy Birthday" twice through to a friend!
  • Rinse hands well under running water.
  • Dry your hands using a paper towel or air dryer. If possible, use your paper towel to turn off the faucet.

REMEMBER: If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to clean your hands.

When using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:

  • Apply the product to the palm of one hand.
  • Rub hands together.
  • Rub the product over all surfaces of your hands and fingers until your hands are dry.

When should you wash your hands?

  • Before preparing or eating food.
  • After going to the bathroom.
  • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has gone to the bathroom.
  • Before and after tending to someone who is sick.
  • After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • After handling an animal or animal waste.
  • After handling garbage.
  • Before and after treating a cut or wound.

Download Our Handwashing Poster