7 Steps to Clean Hands and Fight Germs

Let’s be germ fighters

Global Handwashing Day, October 15

Germs can be found everywhere, from floors, handrails, office desks to everyday objects. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa can stay and hide in these areas. These germs can also be easily spread through our 'hands,' potentially leading to infections and illnesses.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that proper hand washing can reduce diarrhea by up to 30% and respiratory infections (e.g., the common cold) by as much as 20%. Today, we want to emphasize the steps for effective handwashing.

To wash your hands effectively, use soap and clean water and follow these steps: 

1. Rub your hands together.
2. Scrub the back of your hands and between your fingers on both sides.
3. Rub your fingertips and between your fingers on both sides.
4. Scrub the backs of your fingers against your palms on both hands.
5. Clean your thumbs by rubbing them against your palms.
6. Use your fingertips to scrub the palms of your hands.
7. Finally, scrub around your wrists and rinse with clean water.

Tip: How to make handwashing fun

The amount of time you spend washing your hands matters. So, why not start with singing the 'Elephant Song' once, which is about 20-30 seconds, to make it more fun and efficient! Additionally, remember to dry your hands with a paper towel or use a touchless air dryer before proceeding with other activities.

Although handwashing may seem simple, it can significantly reduce the risk of illness in various settings, such as schools, communities, hospitals, and high-traffic areas.

This Global Handwashing Day on October 15th, let's all recognize the importance of hand hygiene in maintaining overall health and well-being.

BDMS Wellness Clinic

LINE: @bdmswellnessclinic or https://lin.ee/Z4So1yQ

Reference

• กองส่งเสริมความรอบรู้และสื่อสารสุขภาพ. การล้างมืออย่างถูกวิธี 7 ขั้นตอน [วิดีโอ]. นนทบุรี: กองส่งเสริมความรอบรู้และสื่อสารสุขภาพ. กรมอนามัย กระทรวงสาธารณสุข; 15 ตุลาคม 2562 [เข้าถึงเมื่อ 21 สิงหาคม 2566]. เข้าถึงเมื่อ https://multimedia.anamai.moph.go.th/video-knowledges/vdo-washhand-covid19/
• CDC. Show Me the Science – Why Wash Your Hands? [Internet]. Atlanta: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2023 May 4 [cited 2023 Aug 21]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/why-handwashing.html#three