Proper Handwashing 640x360

Proper Handwashing

COVID-19 is a viral infection that spreads by respiratory droplets or contact. It can live on surfaces for a few hours and up to several days. Contact spread occurs when your hands touch a contaminated surface and then touch your mouth, eyes or nose. Washing your hands properly helps kill the virus and is the most important step in preventing the spread from one person to another. It is recommended you wash your hands frequently, especially after touching surfaces. Set a good example for children and other family members and encourage kids to stay focused by singing the Happy Birthday song twice while washing.

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Steps to Ensure Proper Handwashing

1 Turn on Faucet 640x311

Step 1: Turn On Faucet and Wash Hands

Step 1: Turn On Faucet and Wash Hands

2 Apply soap to palms 640x311

Step 2: Adequately Soap Palms

Step 2: Adequately Soap Palms

3 Scrub backs of hands 311x311

Step 3: Scrub the Backs of Your Hands

Step 3: Scrub the Backs of Your Hands

4 Scrub between fingers 311x311

Step 4: Scrub Between Your Fingers

Step 4: Scrub Between Your Fingers

5 Wash thumbs 311x311

Step 5: Wash Your Thumbs

Step 5: Wash Your Thumbs

6 Wash fingertips 311x311

Step 6: Wash Your Fingertips

Step 6: Wash Your Fingertips

Resources to Keep Yourself and Others Safe

Download convenient guides for your home or to share with family and friends. Topics are designed to keep you safe and healthy, including proper masking, handwashing tips, self-screening checklists and more. Available in English and Spanish.