"7 Simple Steps to Perfect Handwashing"

Handwashing is a simple yet powerful way to protect yourself and others from illnesses. It's a crucial step in preventing the spread of germs, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are the seven basic steps to handwashing, broken down into a simple, easy-to-follow guide.

Why is Handwashing Important?

Handwashing is a simple act that can prevent the spread of many diseases and infections, including the common cold, flu, and COVID-19. It's particularly important to wash your hands:

• After using the toilet
• Before eating
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching animals, animal feed, or animal waste
• After handling garbage
• After touching commonly used surfaces or objects

The 7 Basic Steps to Handwashing

Now that we've established the importance of handwashing, let's dive into the seven steps. Remember, it's not just about washing your hands; it's about washing them effectively.

Step 1: Wet Your Hands

Start by wetting your hands with clean, running water - it can be warm or cold. Turning the tap on and off with a paper towel or your elbow can help prevent cross-contamination.

Step 2: Apply Soap

Apply soap. Bar soap is fine, but liquid soap might be easier to use, especially for children. Apply about the amount of soap needed to cover your hands.

Step 3: Lather Your Hands

Rub your hands together to make a lather. Make sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. This helps to remove dirt, grease, and germs.

Step 4: Scrub Your Hands

Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice. This ensures that you're scrubbing long enough to kill germs.

Step 5: Rinse Your Hands

Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. This helps to remove any remaining dirt, grease, and germs.

Step 6: Dry Your Hands

Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them. Hand dryers can also be used, but they might blow around germs, so it's best to use them if you're the only one using them.

Step 7: Turn Off the Tap

Turn off the tap using a paper towel or your elbow to prevent cross-contamination. This step is often overlooked but is just as important as the others.

When Should You Wash Your Hands?

You should wash your hands frequently, especially:

• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After using the toilet
• Before eating or preparing food
• After touching animals, animal feed, or animal waste
• After handling garbage
• After touching commonly used surfaces or objects

What if Soap and Water Aren't Available?

If soap and water aren't available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. However, hand sanitizers aren't as effective when your hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Always wash your hands with soap and water if they're dirty.

Handwashing is a simple, yet powerful tool in the fight against germs and illnesses. By following these seven steps, you can help protect yourself and others from diseases. So, let's all do our part and wash our hands effectively and frequently.