ANN/THE DAILY STAR – In our fast-paced contemporary world, a crucial yet frequently neglected habit is handwashing.
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the significance of proper hand hygiene as a fundamental element in preserving good health, thwarting the dissemination of infections, and cultivating a hygienic and lively lifestyle.
Furthermore, amid heightened global health concerns, there is an increasing recognition of the pivotal role hand hygiene plays. Health organisations and authorities across the globe are placing significant emphasis on the importance of handwashing in averting the transmission of infectious diseases.
Therefore, let us guide you through the step-by-step process of handwashing, facilitating the development of this essential life skill.
Begin the handwashing ritual by turning on the tap and letting the water flow over your hands. Ensure that your hands are thoroughly wet, as this helps to activate the soap and begin the cleaning process.
Choose a soap that suits your skin type and is effective in removing germs. Apply a generous amount to your palms and between your fingers. Do not forget to include the back of your hands and under your nails. The friction created during this step is crucial for eliminating bacteria and viruses.
The recommended duration for scrubbing is at least 20 seconds. This is approximately the time it takes to hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice! Ensure that you cover all surfaces of your hands, paying special attention to the finger-tips and nails.
You may ask, why wash for 20 seconds? According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the US, washing our hands for about 15-30 seconds removes more germs from our hands than washing for shorter periods.
Once you have diligently scrubbed your hands, rinse them under running water. Make sure to remove all traces of soap, as leftover soap can cause irritation.
Whether you are using a hand dryer or a paper towel, ensure your hands are thoroughly dry. Damp hands are more likely to pick up and spread germs, defeating the purpose of handwashing.
We understand it can be challenging to encourage children to wash their hands but you can turn it into a fun and educational activity. Consider using colourful, child-friendly soaps, and engage them with a playful song or a countdown to make the process enjoyable – like the Happy Birthday song!
As adults, we can integrate handwashing into our daily routines by making it a habit to wash our hands, for example – before and after preparing food, before eating, after using the restroom, after touching surfaces in public places as well as after sneezing or coughing.
Also, staying informed about current trends in hand hygiene can ensure that we are equipped with the latest information to protect ourselves, our loved ones, as well as our communities.
The practice of thorough handwashing is not just a personal choice but a societal responsibility. By adopting this simple habit, we can contribute to the well-being of the community by preventing the spread of illnesses. – Ayman Anika
