The holidays are a time to gather with friends, family, and the people we care about most. But nothing spoils family fun faster than coughing, sneezing, or feeling under the weather. One of the easiest ways to keep illness from spreading is to wash your hands regularly and properly.
Why Handwashing Matters
Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs—especially during a season filled with shared meals, hugs, and high-touch surfaces. A few seconds at the sink washing your hands can go a long way in protecting you and your loved ones.
When Should You Wash Your Hands
We all know to wash our hands after using the restroom, but germs hide in many unexpected places. Be sure to wash your hands:
- After touching anything contaminated, like diapers or dirty laundry
- Before, during, and after preparing food—especially after touching raw meat, poultry, or eggs
- Before and after eating
- After handling money, garbage, or dirty dishes
- After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose
- Anytime your hands look or feel dirty
- After being in high-touch areas, such as after shopping or touching railings in public
How to Wash Hands Properly
A quick rinse isn’t enough. Follow these simple steps for clean, healthy hands:
- Wet your hands with clean, warm water
- Lather up with plenty of soap
- Scrub for at least 20 seconds—don’t forget your wrists, fingertips, the backs of your hands, and under your nails where germs like to hide. (Try humming your favorite holiday tune!)
- Rinse well under warm water
- Dry with an air dryer, paper towel, or clean cloth towel
Share the Holiday Joy—Not the Germs
With proper hand hygiene, you can help ensure that you and your family enjoy celebrations of joy and stay healthy.
