Unveiling the Risks: Should You Only Wash Your Hands When Necessary?

Hand hygiene is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of harmful germs and diseases. However, many people often wonder if it’s necessary to wash their hands only when they feel it’s needed, such as after using the bathroom, before preparing food, or after touching something that someone else will touch. This article aims to unveil the risks associated with this practice and provide insights into the importance of regular handwashing.

The Importance of Regular Handwashing

Regular handwashing is one of the most effective ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water. The CDC recommends washing hands at key times, such as before, during, and after preparing food, before eating, and after using the toilet.

What Happens When You Don’t Wash Your Hands Regularly?

Not washing your hands regularly can lead to the spread of germs and diseases. When you touch your eyes, nose, and mouth without washing your hands, you can get sick from germs. You can also spread these germs to others by touching them or touching surfaces that they touch. Some of the diseases that can be spread due to not washing hands include cold, flu, food poisoning, and more serious diseases like hepatitis A and meningitis.

Should You Only Wash Your Hands When Necessary?

While it’s crucial to wash your hands at key times, it’s also important to wash your hands regularly, even if you don’t feel it’s necessary. This is because germs can get onto hands and items we touch during daily activities and make us sick. Washing hands with soap and water removes these germs and helps prevent sickness.

How to Wash Your Hands Properly?

Proper handwashing involves five simple steps: Wet, Lather, Scrub, Rinse, and Dry. Wet your hands with clean, running water, apply soap, and lather your hands by rubbing them together. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, rinse your hands well under clean, running water, and dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, washing your hands only when you feel it’s necessary is not enough to prevent the spread of germs and diseases. Regular and proper handwashing is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and others from getting sick. So, make it a habit to wash your hands regularly, not just when you think it’s necessary.