Global Handwashing Day
The simple act of "Handwashing" is a global priority. The United Nations General Assembly has designated October 15th of every year as "Global Handwashing Day" to foster and support a global culture of handwashing with soap for better hygiene.
Proper handwashing involves using clean water and soap, following 6 simple steps. Perform each step 5 times, alternating between both hands:
- Rub palms together in a circular motion.
- Rub the back of each hand and between the fingers.
- Rub palms together and interlace the fingers.
- Interlock fingers and rub the back of fingers against the opposing palm.
- Rub each thumb in a rotational manner.
- Rub fingertips and nails in a circular motion against the opposite palm.
When should you wash your hands? Remember "2 Before and 5 After":
2 Before: Before eating and before preparing or cooking food.
5 After: After using the restroom, after touching dirt or trash, after visiting a patient in a hospital, after touching or playing with pets, and after returning home from outside.
While many infectious diseases spread easily through touch, handwashing is the simplest and most effective way to prevent the spread of germs.
Let’s prioritize handwashing. Practice the correct technique frequently until it becomes a habit to ensure the safety and good hygiene of yourself and those around you.