The Importance of Hand Washing in Preventing COVID-19

Washing your hands consistently and thoroughly is the most effective measure to stop the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). You probably know this already, but do you really follow the right steps when washing your hands? While it may seem like a simple task, there are specific guidelines you should adhere to. If soap and water are unavailable, alcohol-based sanitizers are a good alternative, as they can significantly reduce viral loads, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 ^[3].

When Should You Wash Your Hands?

Keeping your hands clean is crucial for preventing infections. During outbreaks, it becomes even more essential. It's smart to create a routine for regular handwashing.

You should wash your hands:

• Whenever you come back home from public spaces like schools, workplaces, grocery stores, or hospitals, where the risk of contamination is higher due to the presence of multiple individuals.
• Before and after using the restroom, whether it's public or at home, as hands can easily come into contact with pathogens.
• After shaking hands with anyone or coming into close contact, especially during an outbreak, since physical contact can facilitate the transmission of viruses ^[1].
• Before, during, and after cooking, particularly if you're handling raw meat, to prevent cross-contamination.
• If you're caring for someone who is sick at home, as this can help prevent the spread of illness ^[2].
• When treating open wounds or cuts, to reduce the risk of infections.
• Before and after changing a child's diaper, as this is a critical time for hygiene.
• After sneezing, coughing, or blowing your nose, to eliminate any pathogens that may have been transferred to your hands.

• If you're handling animals or coming into contact with animal waste or feed, as zoonotic diseases can be transmitted this way.
• After dealing with pet food or treats, to prevent cross-contamination.
• When you take out the trash, as this can expose you to various pathogens.
• If you touch your shoes while wearing them, since shoes can carry a significant amount of germs.
• After touching surfaces or objects frequently handled by others, like office equipment, tables, currency, or mobile phones, which can harbor viruses and bacteria ^[4].

How Long Should You Wash Your Hands?

Research indicates that rubbing your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds and then rinsing them is the most effective way to eliminate germs, as this duration has been shown to significantly reduce microbial counts ^[3].

When Is It Appropriate to Use Hand Sanitizer?

Using alcohol-based sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content is advisable. They can help prevent the spread of viruses and germs, but washing with soap and water remains the most effective method. Hand sanitizers are a convenient second option, especially when you're on public transport, as they come in travel-sized bottles. They are particularly useful in crowded spaces like restaurants where soap may not be readily available. If you find yourself in a situation where you can't control who you shake hands with, having hand sanitizer can be a lifesaver, especially given the potential for transmission of pathogens in such environments ^[5].