As we continue to move forward with getting back to normal it is important not to forget how important it is to wash your hands. Children come into contact with germs on a regular basis. Think about it they are going to school and daycare while still learning about personal hygiene so they are wiping their noses with their hands and touching everywhere. Proper hand washing can help stop the spread of many illnesses – from the common cold to more serious illnesses like hepatitis A. Washing your hands is easy, inexpensive, effective, and can help prevent sick days and trips to the doctor! Public Service announcement!!!! Using hand sanitizer is not the same as washing your hands. Yes if you don’t have access to running water and soap its a good alternative but nothing can replace washing your hands with soap and water.

Here are some techniques for proper hand washing:

Remind children to wash their hands in these situations:

• Before eating and cooking
• After using the bathroom
• After coughing, sneezing, or blowing one’s nose
• After cleaning around the house
• After touching animals or pets
• After coming home from school
• After playing outside
• Before and after visiting or taking care of sick friends or relatives

Wash your own hands with your children and model proper hand washing

• Talk about it! Announce when and why you are going to wash your hands or talk about something you touched and how you washed your hands after you touched it
• Carry hand sanitizer for times when there is no sink or soap available
• Sing the happy birthday song with them twice while you are washing to show them how long to wash!

Children will need reminders even though they know the rules.  To stop the spread of germs, make hand washing rules and routines, such as washing before meals and after using the bathroom.

Have questions or concerns? Call Dr. Felly Mazhandu FNP-BC. Agape Family Medical Center wants to be your primary care facility. Contact us to schedule an appointment by clicking this link or calling 203-527-3576