Tis’ the season for giving – but lets make sure what we’re
giving isn’t a cold or the flu.
“We want everyone to enjoy the holidays so now is a good time to
remind your children the importance of keeping their hands clean at home
and on the go,” says Kayla Hefner, CVMC Child Health and Safety
Specialist. “School holiday parties and multiple visits to sit on
Santa’s lap leave children susceptible to receiving and spreading
germs. However, by simply washing their hands they can help keep both
Santa and their friends healthy over the holidays.”
In fact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states washing
your hands is the
single most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick or spreading your germs to others. Here are
guidelines given by the CDC to help you and your children know exactly
when and how to wash your hands properly.
When should you wash your hands?
- Before, during, and after preparing food
- Before eating food
- Before and after caring for someone who is sick
- Before and after treating a cut or wound
- After using the toilet
- After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
- After touching garbage
What is the right way to wash your hands?
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap,
and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather
the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy
Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Visit the
CDC’s Handwashing Website for more information and fun tools to help teach your kids the importance
of keeping their hands clean.