"Steps to Hand Washing: WHO's Guide"

The World Health Organization (WHO) has outlined a simple yet effective six-step process for hand washing to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. This essential hygiene practice, when done correctly, can significantly reduce the risk of infections. Let's delve into the steps of hand washing according to WHO, ensuring your hands are clean and germ-free.

Why is Hand Washing Important?

Hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria. It's particularly crucial after using the toilet, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. According to WHO, hand washing can reduce diarrheal diseases by up to 50% and respiratory infections by 16%.

WHO's Six-Step Hand Washing Process

WHO recommends using soap and clean running water for hand washing. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Here are the six steps of hand washing according to WHO:

Step 1: Wet

First, wet your hands with clean water. This could be from a tap, a jug, or a bottle.

Step 2: Lather

Apply soap to your hands. It could be bar soap or liquid soap. Rub your hands together to make a lather. Ensure the lather covers all surfaces of your hands, including between your fingers and around your nails.

Step 3: Scrub

Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice. This ensures you scrub for the recommended duration.

Step 4: Rinse

Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. Make sure to remove all soap residue.

Step 5: Dry

Dry your hands thoroughly using a clean towel or air dry them. This step is crucial as germs can be more easily transferred from wet hands.

Step 6: Use a Hand Sanitizer (if necessary)

If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Apply the gel to the palm of one hand and rub your hands together. Rub over all surfaces of your hands and fingers until they're dry.

When Should You Wash Your Hands?

WHO recommends washing your hands at key times to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. These include:

• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After using the toilet
• Before eating or preparing food
• After handling animals or animal waste
• After handling garbage
• Whenever your hands are visibly dirty

Teaching Children Hand Washing

Teaching children about hand washing is crucial for maintaining good hygiene habits. Make it a fun activity by singing songs or using colorful posters. Here's a simple table to help you teach hand washing to children:

Step	Action	Why it's important
1	Wet your hands	Water helps to remove dirt and germs
2	Lather your hands	Soap helps to kill germs
3	Scrub your hands	Scrubbing helps to remove all germs
4	Rinse your hands	Rinsing helps to remove all soap and germs
5	Dry your hands	Drying helps to remove any remaining water and prevents germs from spreading

Remember, hand washing is a simple yet powerful tool to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. By following WHO's six-step process, you can ensure your hands are clean and germ-free. So, let's all do our part in maintaining good hygiene and staying healthy!