How to Wash Your Hands to Avoid Getting Sick

A simple way to avoid getting sick is to wash your hands. Here are some tips to keep your hands clean and body healthy.

HOW TO WASH YOUR HANDS:

• Wet your hands with clean, warm running water, turn off the tap and apply soap.
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. How long is that? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from start to finish twice.
• Turn on the tap and rinse your hands.
• Dry your hands with a clean towel, or let them air dry.

WHEN TO WASH YOUR HANDS:

• After being outdoors
• Before eating
• After using the bathroom
• Before and after treating a wound
• After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
• After handling a pet, pet food or pet waste
• After touching garbage