1. Wash Your Hands
Handwashing is the best way to stop the spread of infections
- Use plain soap and water.
- No need for antibacterial soap! These products lead to antibiotic resistance.
- If soap and water are not available AND if your hands are not dirty or greasy, you can use alcohol-based hand rubs to sanitize your hands. Wash hands with plain soap and water as soon as you can.
When to wash your hands:
- Before eating or preparing food.
- After using the toilet.
- Before and after changing diapers.
- After blowing nose.
- After handling shared objects.
- Before handling contact lenses.
- Before flossing your teeth.
You can make a difference!
- Expect doctors, dentists, nurses and therapists to wash their hands before they examine you or your children.
- Make sure plain soap is available in your child’s school, in your workplace, and places where you eat.
- Teach by example.
Last Updated: May 16, 2012