The key to stopping the spread of germs

We heard it frequently during the COVID pandemic, but it still rings true. Hand hygiene can help stop the spread of germs. With school back in session and flu season around the corner, here’s the reminder.

Why handwashing matters

Washing your hands is one of the easiest and most important ways to stay healthy and protect others. Clean hands can help stop the spread of viruses, bacteria and even serious infections. That’s why health experts say hand hygiene is something everyone — not just doctors or nurses — should take seriously.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that handwashing can prevent 1 in 3 cases of diarrhea and 1 in 5 cases of respiratory infections like colds or the flu. It’s one of the best ways to stop germs from getting into your body and spreading to others.

The World Health Organization (WHO) also says that hand hygiene helps prevent the spread of disease in your home, at work, in school and in public places. Good hand hygiene even helps fight antibiotic resistance by reducing the need for medications to treat infections.

When to wash your hands

• Before eating or handling food
• After using the bathroom
• After coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
• After touching animals or animal waste
• After touching garbage or high-touch surfaces in public (like door handles or elevator buttons)

How to wash your hands properly

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold).
• Apply soap and lather your hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
• Scrub for at least 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice).
• Rinse well under clean, running water.
• Dry with a clean towel or air dryer.

If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Rub it all over your hands until they feel dry.

Speak up for clean hands

Don’t be afraid to remind people around you to clean their hands if you notice they haven’t — even healthcare workers. The CDC encourages patients and families to speak up. It’s OK to say, “Would you mind cleaning your hands before helping me?”

Clean hands save lives, and your actions make a difference. Whether you're at home, school, work or visiting someone in the hospital, remember: hand hygiene starts with you.