Global Handwashing Day: Clean Hands Save Lives.

Handwashing is one of the easiest, cheapest, and most effective ways to stay healthy. It helps prevent common illnesses such as diarrhea, respiratory infections, colds, flu, and even COVID-19. For children, regular handwashing keeps them strong and reduces school absenteeism due to sickness, while promoting a healthier and more productive lifestyle for adults.

However, an interesting fact is that many of us wash our hands the wrong way ; either too quickly or without using soap. Some people only rinse with water, not realizing that soap is what removes the grease and germs that water alone cannot. Others wash for just a few seconds instead of the recommended 20 seconds, which is about the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.

The Right Way to Wash Your Hands

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water.
2. Apply enough soap to cover all surfaces.
3. Rub your hands together; palm to palm.
4. Scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
5. Continue scrubbing for at least 20 seconds.
6. Rinse well under clean water.
7. Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry them.
   By washing our hands the right way, we protect not only ourselves but also those around us : our friends, family, and community. Small actions truly make a big difference when everyone plays their part.

So this Global Handwashing Day, let us take a moment to reflect on our hand hygiene habits and make the commitment to do it right. This is because clean hands are safe hands, and safe hands save lives.

By DIJA YUSUFU PAPKA