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Hand hygiene and the coronavirus

Hand hygiene is a simple and effective method of preventing the spread of coronavirus infections.

The coronavirus infection Covid-19 spreads through respiratory droplets that land on inanimate objects or directly into the nose or mouth.

When we touch inanimate objects that have been contaminated with respiratory droplets (especially in crowded areas such at an airport, or in public transportation such as in a train or bus), those droplets present on the object get transferred to the nose and mouth causing coronavirus infection.

We can get rid of the germs on our hands by simply washing them before touching our face. We can also use a hand sanitizer for this purpose. However, hand sanitizers are less effective in killing germs compared to hand washing. Because of this, it is advisable to use a hand sanitizer only if washing your hands is inconvenient. (e.g. while travelling).

The World Health Organization (WHO) issues special guidelines for hand hygiene. Following the WHO Guidelines on Hand Hygiene will ensure that all parts of the hand are free of germs.

WHO Guidelines for Hand Hygiene

Wet hands with water and apply soap. Rub palm to palm. Place right palm over the back of the left hand, then left palm over the back of the right hand . Clasp the fingers of the right hand and rub them back and forward on the left palm. Now clasp the fingers of the left hand and rub them back and forward on the right palm. Interlace fingers of both hands together. Place the back of both fingers to opposing palms with fingers interlocked. Wash each thumb by clasping and rotating the thumb in the palm of the opposite hand. Rub wrists of both hands Rinse hands under running water. Dry hands thoroughly. Congratulations! Your hands are now 100% free from germs.

It took me a long time to practice these steps too. But after a few times practicing, you will be able to do all the steps in a few seconds.

Along with good hygiene practices, wearing a face mask

To view a brochure by the World Health Organization on proper hand hygiene, click here:

Methods of Hand Hygiene

For more information on the coronavirus infection, you may refer to the link below:

Protect yourself from coronavirus infection

Hand hygiene matters Prevention is better than cure