What Are the Benefits of Handwashing?

Washing your hands throughout the day reduces the likelihood of viral and bacterial infections. Hand washing is a simple way to prevent the spread of innumerable diseases, including colds, flu, hepatitis A and SARS.

Prevention

• Viruses and bacteria often spread through physical contact. Shaking hands, turning a doorknob and using a public restroom are common ways of transmitting germs. Infectious forms of diarrhea typically pass from person to person through touch. Washing your hands minimizes your risk of contracting and spreading bacterial illnesses and viruses.

Circumstances

• Wash your hands before touching or serving food, eating or drinking, treating a wound or blister or handling contact lenses. Also wash your hands after using the restroom, changing a baby's diaper, coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose, handling uncooked foods, touching an animal or using public transportation.

Strategies

• Hand washing is only beneficial if you do it properly. Wet your hands and lather them in soap. Regular soap is just as effective as more expensive antibacterial soaps, according to the Mayo Clinic. Scrub your hands and lower wrists for at least 20 seconds. Dry them with a clean paper towel or cloth.