importance of hand washing
Hand washing is an important part of our daily routine, But often we are in a hurry and do not wash hands properly. Simply applying soap on palms and washing them with water is not enough. It is also necessary to clean between the fingers, under the nails and the back of the hands. Experts say that, At least with soap and water 20 Washing hands thoroughly by rubbing them for seconds reduces the risk of spreading infection.
world hand washing day
every year 15 World Handwashing Day on October It is celebrated with the aim of making people aware of hand hygiene.
Preventing diseases by washing hands
We touch mobile phones, door handles, lift buttons and other surfaces all day long. In this process, germs and dirt can accumulate on the hands. If we touch eyes, nose or mouth with these hands, infection can enter the body.
Washing hands properly reduces the risk of diarrhea and respiratory infections. Hand hygiene is not only essential to protect yourself from diseases, but also plays an important role in preventing the spread of infection to others.
correct way to wash hands
Follow the following simple steps to clean hands:
- Wet hands with clean running water.
- Apply soap and lather thoroughly on both palms.
- Also rub the backs of the hands with the palms.
- Clean thoroughly between the fingers and under the nails.
- Clean thumbs and wrists also.
- at least 20 Rub hands for seconds.
- Rinse off the soap completely with running water.
- Dry hands with a clean towel or paper towel.
Hum the song 'Happy Birthday' twice in your mind for 20 seconds to remember it.
right time to wash hands
Hand washing is not required only before meals. Cleaning hands on some special occasions is extremely important to prevent infection.
- Before and after cooking.
- After handling raw meat, fish or eggs.
- Before eating food.
- After using the toilet.
- After coughing, sneezing or blowing the nose.
- After picking up garbage or cleaning.
- After touching pets or handling their food.
- After changing a diaper or caring for a sick person.
- Before and after cleaning or dressing a wound.
- After returning home from public places, especially when hands are dirty.
Is antibacterial soap necessary?
No. Washing hands with ordinary soap and clean running water is sufficient for most people. There is no solid evidence that antibacterial soaps provide any additional benefits over regular soaps. However, there may be different guidelines for people working in hospitals and healthcare settings.
use of hand sanitizer
If soap and water are not available, at least 60 Hand sanitizer with percent alcohol can be used. Apply it on all surfaces of hands and rub until it dries.
Keep in mind that if hands are very dirty or greasy, sanitizer may not be as effective. In such a situation, it is better to wash hands with soap and water. Keep children under supervision while using sanitizer and keep it out of their reach.
Disadvantages of frequent hand washing
Hand hygiene is essential, but excessive washing or use of harsh soaps can reduce the skin's natural oil. This can cause hands to become dry, red or cracked. The problem of irritation and eczema may also increase in people with sensitive skin.
In this situation, use of mild soap and moisturizer can be helpful.