Cleaning your hands is the single most effective thing you can do to stop the spread of germs. It removes the bacteria and viruses picked up from surfaces, other people, and your own coughs and sneezes.
When to clean your hands
- Before eating or preparing food.
- Before and after caring for someone who is unwell.
- After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
- After using the toilet.
- After touching shared or public surfaces.
Soap and water, or hand sanitiser?
Washing with soap and running water is best, especially when hands are visibly dirty. When soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitiser (at least 60% alcohol) is a good alternative.
How to wash your hands
- Wet your hands and apply enough soap to cover them.
- Rub palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and around thumbs.
- Keep scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.
- Rinse well and dry with a clean towel.
See also: Infection Control Basics and Personal Protective Equipment.