National Handwashing Awareness Week is recognized in December, and understanding its importance is particularly vital during our current pandemic. This simple health care task minimizes bacteria and germs, keeping your family safe from illness. Here’s an overview of handwashing information.

Why Handwashing Is Important

You touch several surfaces during the day and pick up germs and bacteria on them. These contaminants enter your system when you unconsciously touch your eyes, mouth, or nose. Handwashing eliminates germs and bacteria that cause illness and viruses, minimizing your risk of disease.

Soap molecules bind to water on one end and oils and dirt on the other. Most bacteria and viruses have a fatty outer layer, so the soap bonds with them to lift them from your skin. Rinsing the soap sends the molecules and attached germs down the drain, leaving your hands clean.

How to Do It Properly

Cover your entire hand in soap, including between the fingers, under the nails, and around the thumbs and wrists. Lather it thoroughly for 20 seconds to ensure the soap captures as many particles as possible. If you don’t have soap, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content.

Wash your hands before cooking and eating, as well as after using the restroom, being around someone who’s ill, handling animals, and touching shared public surfaces. It’s also wise to wash up after leaving a health care office or place where germs are easily spread, like at a gym or daycare.

While handwashing minimizes your contact with bacteria and viruses, you may still get sick from other factors. If you’re under the weather, turn to Hillside Family Medicine in Anchorage, AK. These health care providers will take the time to understand your symptoms, then create a custom treatment plan to restore your overall well-being. Get more information about their services online, or call (907) 344-0200 to schedule an appointment.