Global Handwashing Day

 

The COVID – 19 pandemic provides stark reminders that one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of a virus is the simplest: Hand hygiene, especially through hand washing with soap.

To beat the virus today and ensure better health outcomes beyond the pandemic, hand washing with soap must be a priority now and in future.

Hand hygiene is frequently called the single most important measure to reduce the risks of transmitting micro-organisms from one person to another or from one site to another on the same person.

October 15 is Global Hand washing Day, a global promotion day dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding about the importance of hand washing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. Appropriate hand washing can minimize micro-organisms acquired on the hands by contact with body fluids and contaminated surfaces. Hand washing breaks the chain of infection transmission and reduces person-to-person transmission. 

Each year on October 15, Global Hand washing Day highlights the importance of hand washing with soap and water at home, in the community, and around the world.

This years’ theme , “Clean hands are within reach”, calls for all of society to achieve universal hand hygiene. The observance was established by the Global Hand washing Partnership in 2008. This year’s theme, “Clean hands are within reach,” seeks to raise awareness of making soap and water available globally, especially in public places, schools, and health care facilities.

The first Global Hand washing Day was held in 2008, when over 120 million children around the world washed their hands with soap in more than 70 countries. Since 2008, community and national leaders have used Global Hand washing Day to spread the word about hand washing, build sinks and tippy taps, and demonstrate the simplicity and value of clean hands.  Since then, Global Hand washing Day has continued to grow.  Global Hand washing Day is endorsed by governments, schools, international institutions, civil society organizations, NGOs, private companies, individuals, and more.

The stated aims of Global Hand washing Day are to:

•  Foster and support a general culture of hand washing with soap in all societies

•  Shine a spotlight on the state of hand washing in each country

•   Raise awareness about the benefits of hand washing with soap.

Hand washing remains the No. 1 tip for preventing the spread of infection transmission . It’s common sense and it works. However, it must be done properly and with soap and water. When soap and water are not available, the next best option is to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Indications for Hand Washing And Hand Disinfection:

Hand washing throughout the day is important, but even more important during an outbreak. Always remember to wash your hands in these situations:

• When hands are visibly dirty or contaminated
• After returning from a public outing (grocery store, work, school, concert, sporting activity, hospital, nursing home, etc.).
• Before leaving the bathroom — both at home and in public bathrooms.
• Before direct contact with medicines for oral use.
• Prior to putting on sterile gloves, mask, face shield
• After removal of gloves, mask, face shield.
•   After shaking hands during flu season and virus outbreaks.
• Before, during, and after preparing food, especially raw food.
• Before eating food.
• Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea.
• Before and after treating a cut or wound.
• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet.
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste.
• After handling pet food or pet treats.
• After touching garbage.
• After putting on your shoes.
• After using public computers, landline phones, touching public tables and countertops, cash and coins, other people’s phones, etc.

These are the some practical examples in day-to-day working. 

How long should I wash my hands?

International guidelines & research has shown that washing your hands for at least  20 seconds is effective in killing germs. Don’t have the patience for this? Experts say that washing your hands while singing Happy Birthday twice makes the experience quick and pleasant.

When should I use hand sanitizer?

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol) is helpful in protecting against the spread of germs and viruses. However, hand washing with soap and water is still best. Hand sanitizer is effective when soap and water are not available. This includes when taking public transportation and it’s difficult to get to a bathroom (airplane, train, bus). Carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer makes it easy to disinfect your hands in these situations.

Apply a generous drop of hand sanitizer to the palm of your hand and rub it across both hands, front and back, and fingertips.

There are only a few simple steps to take to give your hands a thorough cleaning and prevent the spread of illness. The steps are:

1. Wet your hands with clean running water (warm or cold).
2. Lather up your hands with soap. Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds. Silently “singing” the birthday song twice is an easy-to-remember 20-second timer tool. Don’t forget to wash your wrists, the back of your hands, between your fingers and under your fingernails.
3. Rinse your hands well under running water.
4. Turn off the water with your elbow.
5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.
6. If you use a towel to dry your hands, use the same towel to open the bathroom door to leave the room. Discard the towel in a waste bin.

Hand washing is a simple, effective way to fight off infections and keep yourself healthy. It’s easy to do, inexpensive and only takes 20 seconds of your time. It’s the best 20 seconds you can spend on your health – and the health of others around you.

Happy Global Hand Washing Day!!