(Aviation News): Handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective hygiene measures to prevent the spread of disease. However, proper handwashing is key to making this practice truly effective. In this news, we look at the correct way to wash your hands to maintain health and hygiene in your daily life.
Why hand washing is important
Before we get into the details of hand washing, let’s remember why this practice is important:
- prevent disease: Proper hand washing can eliminate germs, bacteria and viruses that can cause illnesses such as the common cold, flu and gastrointestinal illnesses.
- Infection Control: It is especially important to prevent diseases such as COVID-19 that are spread through direct contact or contaminated surfaces.
- Public health promotion: Hand washing is a critical measure to maintain public health and reduce the spread of disease in the community.
Steps to effective hand washing
Below we introduce the basic steps for proper hand washing:
- Wet your hands: Turn on the faucet and wet your hands completely with warm water.
- Apply soap: Apply enough soap to your hands to cover all surfaces.
- Rub hands: Rub your hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Be sure to wipe all areas, including the palms of your hands, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.
- Friction time: Sing “Happy Birthday” twice or use a short song of your choice to make sure you scrub long enough.
- Rinse with water: Rinse your hands thoroughly with warm water to remove soap and germs.
- Dry your hands: Dry your hands thoroughly using a clean towel or a hair dryer. Avoid touching surfaces after drying your hands.
- The faucet is closed: Use a towel or paper to turn off the faucet, but do not touch it directly.
The critical moment to wash your hands
In addition to washing your hands after using the toilet and before eating, it is also important to wash your hands at the following key times:
- After coughing or sneezing.
- After touching a common surface such as a handrail or door handle.
- After contact with animals or their food.
- After disposing of garbage.
- Before and after caring for patients.
Washing hands is an act of responsibility
Simply put, proper handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your health and the health of others. This is an act of responsibility that we must incorporate into our daily lives to prevent disease and contribute to public health. Let us realize the importance of washing hands properly and maintaining good hygiene habits in our lives.
Source: El Comercio.