By Rhonda Kay Leonard
December 4-10
Cold and flu season is upon us. Perhaps that’s the reason healthcare professionals are reminding us to take handwashing seriously: handwashing is the best way to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We all know to wash our hands before preparing food and after using the bathroom, but the CDC urges us to wash our hands far more frequently than we typically do. Here are a few occasions we might overlook:
- After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
- Before and after caring for someone who is sick
- After changing a disposable brief or cleaning up after someone who has used the toilet
- After touching garbage
- After touching an animal, animal feed or animal waste
Professional caregivers follow strict handwashing procedures to prevent illnesses. United Homecare Services believes everyone can benefit from a refresher course. Here are the steps the CDC urges us to follow:
- 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.
- Use the towel to turn off the water.
During the holiday season let’s spread joy, not germs.
This story is sponsored by United Homecare Services. If you are interested in finding out more or scheduling a no-obligation consultation, call 503-433-8079.
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