Wash Your Hands Often! Preventing the Spread of Germs

Wash Your Hands Often! Preventing the Spread of Germs

Discover the importance of proper handwashing to prevent the spread of germs. Learn about the types of germs that live on your hands and how to effectively wash them away. Simple steps for a healthier you.

Introduction – The Germy World Around Us

Imagine your hands are like tiny magnets that attract germs. These germs are like invisible hitchhikers that love to travel from place to place on your hands. From touching doorknobs to handling food, your hands come into contact with countless surfaces that may harbor germs. That’s why washing your hands is so important!

Why Germs Love Your Hands

Germs are everywhere! They live on our skin, in the air, and on surfaces. Some germs are harmless, but others can make you sick. Your hands are a perfect breeding ground for germs because they are constantly touching things. When you touch your face, mouth, or nose with unwashed hands, you’re giving those germs a direct entry point into your body.

The Power of Handwashing

Washing your hands is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from illness. When you wash your hands properly, you’re physically removing germs from your skin. This helps to prevent the spread of germs to yourself and others.

How to Wash Your Hands Properly

Washing your hands might seem simple, but there’s a right way to do it.

• Wet your hands: Turn on the water and wet your hands with clean, running water.
• Lather up: Apply soap and lather all over your hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Scrub: Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. You can sing the “Happy Birthday” songtwice while you scrub.
• Rinse: Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands: Use a clean towel or air dry your hands.

When to Wash Your Hands

It’s important to wash your hands at key times throughout the day:

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating
• After using the toilet
• After changing a diaper or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After touching garbage
• After touching a wound or sore

Additional Tips

• If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Teach children how to wash their hands properly.
• Make handwashing a fun activity for kids by using colorful soap or singing a catchy song.

By following these simple steps, you can help protect yourself and others from getting sick. So, let’s make handwashing a habit!

Stay curious!

Want to learn more about germs and disease prevention? There are plenty of resources available online and at your local library.