exclamation circle solid icon Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from getting sick. Learn when and how you should wash your hands to stay healthy. How Germs SpreadWashing hands can keep you healthy and prevent the spread of respiratory and diarrheal infections. Germs can spread from person to person or from surfaces to people when you:
Key Times to Wash HandsYou can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:
This list of key times to wash hands was developed based on data from a number of studies. There may be other key times when it is important to wash hands during the COVID-19 pandemic. To prevent the spread of germs during the COVID-19 pandemic, you should also wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds:
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to clean your hands. Follow Five Steps to Wash Your Hands the Right WayWashing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can help stop germs from spreading from one person to another and in our communities—including your home, workplace, schools, and childcare facilities. Follow these five steps every time.
Why? Read the science behind the recommendations. Use Hand Sanitizer When You Can’t Use Soap and WaterYou can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to get rid of germs in most situations. If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. You can tell if the sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol by looking at the product label. Sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in many situations. However,
How to Use Hand Sanitizer
CDC’s Communication MaterialsWatch and share hand hygiene videos to raise awareness and educate your community about healthy hygiene behaviors. CDC has health promotion materials to encourage kids and adults to make handwashing part of their everyday lives.
For more information on handwashing, visit CDC’s Handwashing website or call 1-800-CDC-INFO. |