As we come to the end of the week, I want to take a moment to highlight the importance of handwashing in preventing the spread of infections. With the ongoing celebration of International Infection Prevention Week, it's crucial for everyone to master the art of handwashing. Let me explain why it's so important.
Proper handwashing is essential for various reasons:
One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infectious diseases, including flu, colds, COVID-19, and other viruses, as well as waterborne illnesses, is by practising good hand hygiene such as washing hands frequently with soap and water.
Regular handwashing breaks the chain of infection by removing germs and pathogens from your hands that accumulate from touching surfaces.
Handwashing is a simple and effective way to prevent the spread of illness-causing germs and protect yourself and others.
When is the best time to handwash your hands?
Wash hands before handling food to prevent illnesses.
After using the toilet or changing a diaper, it is important to wash your hands in order to prevent the spreading of germs such as fecal bacteria.
To prevent the spread of respiratory infections, it is important to wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.
Germs can be found on objects and surfaces in public spaces. It is important to wash your hands after being in such places.
Washing your hands is a good practice when handling trash or recycling that may contain harmful bacteria.
It is crucial to prevent the spread of infection by washing your hands before and after caring for a wound or someone who is ill.
It's important to make washing your hands a regular habit. Remember to always wash your hands.
Here are some step-by-step techniques for effective handwashing
1. Wet your hands with clean, running water.
2. Apply soap on your hands.
3. Scrub all hand surfaces, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
4. Continue scrubbing for at least 20 seconds. You can sing the happy birthday song twice to ensure you've scrubbed long enough.
5. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
6. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dryer.
What are the common handwashing mistakes to avoid?
Washing your hands with cold water may not effectively remove germs. Warm water is better at dissolving oils and removing contaminants from the skin.
Skipping soap when washing is a grave mistake. Soap is essential for breaking down and removing pathogens from the skin's surface.
Don't be in a hurry when washing your hands or rinsing your hands.
Neglecting to clean fingernails and cuticles can cause bacteria and dirt buildup, so it's important to avoid it.
If you don't rub your hands together, you're not washing them properly to remove germs.
One common mistake people make while washing their hands is forgetting to wash the back of their hands.
It's crucial that you remove any rings or jewellery before washing your hands, as germs can easily get trapped underneath and compromise the effectiveness of the washing.
When you dry your hands with a dirty towel, you transfer the bacteria from the towel back onto your hands, increasing your risk of infection.
Touching faucets after washing your hands does the same thing. To avoid recontaminating them, use a paper towel or your elbow to turn off the faucet.
Not using the right-hand sanitiser, which is 60% alcohol, and not applying enough sanitiser to cover all hand surfaces and rub your hands together until they are dry.
Handwashing is a simple yet powerful practice that can have a profound impact on public health, reducing the spread of infections and protecting individuals and communities from illnesses.