Handwashing at Key Times Keeps You Healthy

Washing your hands with soap and water is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. Handwashing can prevent 1 in 5 respiratory infections, such as colds and flu, and 1 in 3 diarrhea-related sicknesses.

Wash Your Hands Often

You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:

- Before, during, and after preparing food
- Before eating food
- After using the toilet
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea

Wash Your Hands the Right Way

Washing your hands the right way removes more germs.

Follow these five steps every time:

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.

2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.

4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.

5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.