Basics about Clean Hands

1. Before, during and after preparing food
2. After touching garbage
3. Before you eat
4. After you have used the restroom
5. Before and after taking care of someone who is sick
6. After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
7. Before and after taking care of a cut or wound

It is important to wash using warm water and soap. Rub your hands together, being sure to cover all surfaces, including between your fingers and under your nails. One way to remember how long to wash your hands is to scrub for 20 seconds while humming Happy Birthday twice from start to finish.

Alcohol-based (60%) hand sanitizers do not require water and can be an alternative if you don't have access to soap and running water. Apply the sanitizer to the palm of your hand then rub them together, covering all the surfaces, until they are dry. You should not use hand sanitizers if your hands are visibly dirty

Questions to Consider Asking Your Doctor

• When should I wash my hands?
• What is the right way to wash my hands?
• When and how should I use hand sanitizers?
  

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