HAND HYGIENE- WHY SO IMPORTANT

Facts about hand hygiene

What is it?

Hand hygiene means cleaning your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.

Why is it important?

Good hand hygiene is the most effective way to stop infections spreading.
Many infections, such as the common cold and the flu, are caused by spreading germs from person to person.
Even when your hands look clean they can still be carrying germs. This is because they are so small that you just can’t see them. This is why when we touch other people or objects we can spread germs without even realizing it.

When to wash your hands

You should wash your hands properly and often, especially:

• before, during and after preparing food
• after going to the toilet or changing a nappy
• after you blow your nose, sneeze or cough
• when your hands are visibly dirty
• after smoking
• after handling or patting animals
• before and after taking care of someone who is sick
• when you enter and leave a healthcare facility.

How to wash your hands

Most of us don’t pay attention to how we wash our hands, but it’s important to do it the right way.

Using soap and water

When your hands are visibly dirty, wash them with soap and water.

• Wet your hands and apply the soap.
• Rub the soap all over your hands. Pay attention to the backs of your hands and fingers, fingernails, fingertips, and the webbing between fingers.
• Rinse your hands under running water.
• Pat hands dry with a towel or paper towel.

  Using alcohol-based hand rubs

  If soap and water are not available alcohol-based hand rubs can be used.
  
• Use enough hand rub product to cover both of hands.
• Rub all surfaces of your hands. Pay attention to the backs of your hands and fingers, fingernails, fingertips, and the webbing between fingers.
  
    
• Rub hands together until dry.

Alcohol-based hand rubs come in small containers which can be carried in your bag or briefcase, or in your pocket. They are ideal for traveling.