The Importance of Handwashing

In this episode of A Moment with Marley, the Meriden Department of Health and Human Services is here to remind you that properly washing your hands can help prevent the spread of germs and keep you healthy. Every day we touch HUNDREDS of surfaces including door handles, phones, keyboards, countertops, and more. By touching these common surfaces and then touching your nose, eyes, or mouth you are potentially exposing yourself to germs. You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs: Before, during, and after preparing food Before and after eating food Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea Before and after treating a cut or wound After using the toilet 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 Follow these simple steps for effective handwashing: Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Sing the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. Dry your hands using a clean towel, or us an air dryer if towels are not available. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. You can tell if the sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol by looking at the product label. By washing your hands frequently you are not just protecting yourself – you are also protecting everyone around you by preventing the transmission of germs. Thank you Meriden – stay healthy!