As the world continues to navigate the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, one simple yet highly effective practice remains our first line of defense: handwashing. Health experts emphasize that washing your hands not only combats the spread of the coronavirus but also protects against a multitude of other diseases.
China Science Communication has identified nine critical occasions when you should wash your hands:
Before and after preparing food: To prevent the transfer of germs during food handling.
Before eating: To ensure that any germs on your hands do not enter your body.
After using the restroom: To eliminate bacteria and viruses acquired in the bathroom.
After coughing or sneezing: Especially if you’ve covered your mouth or nose with your hands.
After touching animals or pets: To remove any germs that animals may carry.
After handling garbage: To wash away contaminants collected from waste.
Before and after caring for someone who is sick: To protect both yourself and the person you are caring for.
After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet: To prevent the spread of harmful microbes.
After being in a public place: Particularly after touching surfaces frequently handled by others, such as door handles or shopping carts.
Proper handwashing involves using soap and water, scrubbing all parts of your hands—including the backs, between your fingers, and under your nails—for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol can serve as an alternative.
Incorporating these handwashing moments into your daily routine is a simple yet powerful way to safeguard your health and contribute to the well-being of your community. By staying vigilant, we can collectively reduce the spread of infections and navigate toward a healthier future.
