The holidays are here, as well as cold and flu season. Since December is National
Hand-washing Month, we’re sharing how you can help prevent the spread of germs during this social season by ensuring proper hand hygiene.
Why is hand-washing important?
It’s the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Many illness-causing germs are spread from the mouth and nose to the hands and to surfaces we touch.
When should you wash your hands?
Wash your hands often, especially after touching your mouth or nose, using restrooms, and before and after handling food.
How should you wash your hands?
Wet your hands with warm water. Apply soap and lather your hands well, especially rubbing the backs of your hands, fingers and under nails. This process should take about 20 seconds, or the amount of time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Rinse your hands under running water and dry them with a clean towel.