Since our childhood, parents always insisted us to wash our hands and always trigger us with this question, “Did you washed your hands?” Isn’t it? But why handwashing is so important?
Before knowing the consequences of not washing our hands, lets’ know how it plays a vital role in our health.
Thousands of people die every day around the world from infections due to dirty hands. Hand washing is the most important measure to avoid various kind of infections.
Handwashing can reduce the spread of diarrheal and respiratory illness. Regular handwashing, particularly before and after certain activities, is one of the best methods to remove germs.
But when we do not wash our hands, the dirt and germs would likely buildup and will leave a bunch of diseases.
We can get rid off from these germs by using soap and water. According to WHO, hand-washing involves five simple steps:
- Wet – Wet your hands under running water.
- Lather- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between the fingers and under your nails.
- Scrub- Scrub your hands for 20 sec. For this, you do not need a timer, say HAPPY BIRTHDAY twice.
- Rinse- Rinse your hands well under clean and running water.
- Dry – Dry your hands using a clean towel.
Washing our hands is the simplest way to protect ourself and others from most of the diseases. Make handwashing a part of your life and in return, you will always stay healthy.
So next time if anyone asks you, “Have you washed your hands?”
Your answer should be “YES”.
Article by Prerna Singh
Edited by Moumita Mazumdar
