National Hand Washing Awareness Week

December 7-13, 2008

Since the cold and flu season is fast approaching it is important to remember that these illnesses are spread from person to person in respiratory droplets by way of coughing and sneezing.

How to stop the spread of germs…..

• Cover your mouth and nose
• Clean your hands often
• Remind your children to practice healthy habits, too.  (CDC website)

Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing….

Coughing or sneezing into a tissue is recommended; however, if one is not available,

      cough or sneeze into your arm. If you do happen to cough or sneeze into your hand,

      be sure to wash your hands and do so every time this occurs.

Wash your hands to the tune of Happy Birthday….

It is recommended that you wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15-20

      seconds minimum. If you sing the Happy Birthday song twice while washing your

      hands, you should meet the minimum requirements for handwashing.  

If possible turn off the faucet with a paper towel.

Think of all the germs on the faucet.You have just washed your hands and are about to

     turn off the water with your clean hands….yuck!!!

Gel Sanitizers and Alcohol-Based hand wipes….

     If soap and water is not available, gel sanitizers and alcohol-based hand wipes may be

     used. When using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry.

Did you know that….

Some viruses and bacteria can live from 20 minutes up to 2 hours on most surfaces

     like tables, doorknobs and desks.

And….

Nearly 22 million school days are lost annually due to the common cold alone (CDC,

     1996).

Besides proper handwashing we also need to do the following to stay healthy….

Get plenty of sleep and physical activity, drink water, and eat healthy!!

Stay healthy this winter….say no to the flu!!!

Information obtained from the CDC website. Please visit this website for more information at http://www.cdc.gov/Features/HandWashing/