Handwashing
There are hundreds of germs living on your hands. Some are harmless, and some are not.
Why is it so important to wash your hands properly?
Washing your hands is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and other people from illnesses.
Washing your hands properly removes dirt and germs. It stops germs spreading to other people and objects. When germs spread, they can cause illnesses such as food poisoning, flu or diarrhoea.
When should we wash our hands?
You should always wash your hands:
- After using the toilet
- Before eating food
- After touching animals, including pets
- Before cooking.
You should wash your hands with soap and warm water. If you wash your hands properly, you should be able to sing happy birthday twice while you are washing them.
This information has been provided by our school nurses and NHS Choices.