How Long Should You Wash Your Hands According to the WHO?
Hand hygiene is a fundamental aspect of maintaining personal health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides guidelines on the duration and technique of handwashing to ensure effective cleanliness. In this article, we delve into the details of how long you should wash your hands, based on the WHO’s recommendations, and explore the various dimensions of hand hygiene.
Duration of Handwashing
According to the WHO, handwashing should be performed for at least 20 seconds. This duration is sufficient to eliminate most germs and bacteria from your hands. The 20-second rule is a simple yet effective way to ensure that you are thoroughly cleaning your hands.
Here’s a breakdown of the 20-second handwashing process:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Wet your hands | Use clean, running water to wet your hands. |
| Apply soap | Apply enough soap to cover all hand surfaces. |
| Scrub your hands | Scrub your hands thoroughly with soap, paying close attention to the following areas: |
| – Between your fingers | |
| – The backs of your hands | |
| – Under your nails | |
| – Your wrists | |
| Rinse your hands | Rinse your hands thoroughly under clean, running water. |
| Dry your hands | Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dryer. |
It’s important to note that the 20-second rule applies to both regular handwashing and handwashing with soap. While water alone can remove some germs, soap helps to break down and eliminate more harmful microorganisms.
When to Wash Your Hands
Handwashing is essential in various situations to prevent the spread of infections. The WHO recommends washing your hands in the following scenarios:
- Before, during, and after preparing food
- Before eating or handling food
- After using the toilet
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- After touching garbage
- After touching animals or animal waste
- After being in a healthcare setting
- After handling money
By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of transmitting infectious diseases to yourself and others.
Alternative Hand Hygiene Methods
In situations where soap and water are not available, the WHO recommends using alcohol-based hand sanitizers. These sanitizers can kill many germs on your hands and are effective when used correctly. However, it’s important to note that hand sanitizers are not a substitute for handwashing with soap and water, especially when hands are visibly dirty.
When using hand sanitizers, follow these steps:
- Apply a sufficient amount of hand sanitizer to cover all hand surfaces.
- Rub your hands together until the sanitizer is dry.
It’s crucial to choose a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content for optimal effectiveness.
Conclusion
Handwashing is a simple yet powerful tool in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. By adhering to the WHO’s guidelines on handwashing duration and technique, you can protect yourself and others from harmful germs. Remember to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, using soap and water whenever possible, and opt for alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
