Handwashing...
the simplest, most effective way to stay healthy

handwashing1 Germs can be spread by contact with virtually any surface, from doorknobs to railings to cash.

Once you get those germs on your hands, they are easily spread, even by simply rubbing your nose or your eyes. Now that the cold and flu season is upon us, hand washing can help you stay healthy.

Interior Health offers these simple steps to help you stay healthy.

Wash with soap and warm water for 15 seconds.
Rinse for 15 seconds.
Dry with a clean towel.
Don’t forget to turn off the taps with something other than your clean hands!
Wash before you eat, drink, make meals, put in contact lenses, treat a cut, or anytime you feel the need.
Wash after you blow your nose, cough, play with pets, change diapers, handle money, or use the restroom.
Teach your children to sing happy birthday or the alphabet song — once for washing and once for rinsing.
Think about separating your “clean” tasks from “dirty” tasks. For example, make dinner and then take out the garbage or put in your contact lenses, then pet your dog.
Pay attention to washing your fingers tips — they touch everything.
If water isn’t available, use hand wipes or an alcohol based hand sanitizer.

Encourage everyone in your school, workplace, & recreation spot to do the same! Print off copies of Interior Health’s Handwashing posters, and put one up in each bathroom.

General Handwashing Poster (8-1/2 X 11)

General Handwashing Poster (11 X 17)

Wash Your Hands - Six Steps

Wash Your Hands (in multiple languages)

Resources:
Canadian Pediatric Society Handwashing for Parents & Kids

Microbe.org Lay Your Hands on a Million Microbes
Henry the Hand Four Principles of Hand Awareness