Throughout the month of December, Valley-Wide Health Systems will be sharing information regarding Winter Wellness and how to stay physically and emotionally healthy during the Winter Season, as well as tips for keeping your teeth healthy. Below, Dr. Patrick Smith discusses the importance of washing your hands to avoid the spread of germs and viruses, as well as the pros and cons of using hand sanitizer vs. washing with soap and water.
- The cold months are times of high transmission of virus and bacteria.
- Hand washing is an effective way to prevent germs from spreading.
- When washing hands with soap and water, wet hands first, use the soap, and rub the hands together vigorously for at least 20 seconds. Make sure to cover all surfaces of the hands and fingers. Rinse hands well and dry thoroughly with a towel. Use the towel to turn off the faucet.
- Liquid, bar, foam, or powdered forms of plain soap are acceptable when washing hands.
- Alcohol based hand sanitizers are an effective alternative to traditional soap and water. It should be used in the same manner, covering all surfaces of the hands and fingers with vigorous rubbing. Hand sanitizers can cause dry skin, so watch out for this.
- Recommend to wash hands or apply sanitizer before eating, after using the restroom, after sneezing or coughing, or whenever the hands are dirty.
