Hand Washing to Keep You Healthy

Part four of our flu prevention week discusses proper hand washing. It is one of the most important defenses against the influenza virus, as well as the cold and other illnesses.

Are You Washing Your Hands Properly?

Most people do not wash their hands long enough any time of the year, let alone during flu season. In fact, according to a national survey 75% of Americans don’t adjust their hand washing habits at all for flu season. Most respondents also admitted to only washing their hands from 5-15 seconds. The CDC recommends a minimum of 20 seconds.

The best way to time yourself while washing your hands? Sing “Happy Birthday” slowly in your head all the way through, that will be about the right amount of time. You could sing it out loud, too, but you may get some funny looks in public restrooms.

It is also important to wash your entire hands thoroughly. Many people focus solely on the palms, but germs can easily live on the backs of your hand, between fingers, and under finger nails.

This handy infographic will help you remember proper handwashing techniques. Spread it around and stop the spread of germs!