Handwashing is easy to do and it's one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of many types of infection and illness.
When should you wash your hands?
Before, during and after preparing food
Before eating food
Before and after caring for someone who is sick
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 blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
After touching animal waste
After touching garbage
What is the right way to wash your hands?
Wet your hands with clean, running water, turn off the tap and apply soap.
Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice.
Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention