How Can You Reduce Your Chances of Catching the Flu?

Did you know that the very simple activity of frequent hand washing is one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to prevent the spread of the influenza virus and to keep yourself healthy?  Although people around the world clean their hands with water, very few use soap to wash their hands.

What is the right way to wash your hands?

1. Wet your hands with clean running water (warm or cold) and apply soap.
2. Rub your hands together to make a lather and scrub them well; be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
4. Rinse your hands well under running water.
5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry.

Click here to watch a short video on how to properly wash and dry your hands.

When should you wash your hands?  Here are a few examples of when you should wash your hands:

• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• Before and after caring for someone who is sick
• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating food
• 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 touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After touching garbage