Handwashing 101: Reduce Your Risk of Getting Sick During Flu Season
Reduce your risk of getting sick during flu season by washing your hands properly. Dr. Eric Ascher, a family medicine physician, emphasizes the importance of handwashing in preventing the spread of infections. Washing your hands before and after touching shared surfaces, as well as before eating or touching your face, is crucial. Remember to wash your hands as soon as you enter your home.
To effectively wash your hands, follow the 20-second rule recommended by Dr. Ascher. Singing a song like "Happy Birthday" or the choruses of popular songs can help you time the duration. Studies have shown that many people do not wash their hands thoroughly, so make sure to scrub all areas, including palms, fingers, backs of hands, and nails.
The temperature of the water used for handwashing is not as important as the soap, friction, and time spent washing. Dr. Ascher recommends warm water for comfort. The type of soap used does not significantly impact the effectiveness of handwashing, according to the CDC. While hand sanitizer can be used as a temporary solution, it is not a substitute for washing hands with soap and water.
Hand sanitizer may not effectively kill all infection-causing germs, such as the norovirus. It is essential to scrub your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds to maximize the benefits of handwashing.