Handwashing Tips
You can also visit our online library for more information on influenza.
Wash Your Hands!
Keeping your hands clean is one of the most important ways to prevent the spread of infections and illness. Clean hands help prevent illness at home, at school, and at work.
When to wash your hands...
• Before preparing food
• After handling uncooked meat and poultry
• Before eating
• After changing diapers
• After handling an animal or animal wastes
• After handling garbage
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
• After using the bathroom
If hands are visibly soiled, wash with soap and water.
1. Wet hands and apply soap.
2. Rub hands together to create friction and wash for at least 15-20 seconds.
(Imagine singing “Happy Birthday” twice to a friend.)
3. Rinse and dry with a disposable towel. Use your towel to turn off the faucet.
If hands are not visibly soiled, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
1. Apply product to the palm of the hand.
2. Rub hands together, covering all surfaces until dry.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are actually more effective than soap and water in killing bacteria and viruses. Hand sanitizers can also contain ingredients that help prevent dryness.
