Hand Hygiene and You
Why is hand hygiene so important?
The most common way germs are spread is by people’s hands. Germs are often harmless but they can also cause illnesses such as colds, flu, and tummy bugs.
Washing your hands properly with soap and warm water is the single most important thing you can do to help reduce the spread of infections and help protect you, your family and those around you.
It is vitally important that all children are made aware of the importance and benefits of washing your hands properly.
Encouraging children to wash their hands at appropriate times will help to ensure that this practice becomes a lifelong habit.
Materials are being developed for children for use in primary schools and nurseries and will be available later in 2007.
Carers
For those people who care for friends or relatives who are unable to look after themselves, it is equally important that handwashing techniques are applied at the appropriate times.
This helps to significantly reduce the risk of passing on an infection to someone who could be more susceptible to infection because of their existing condition.
Visiting a friend or relative in Hospital
When visiting a friend or relative in hospital or other environment where healthcare is provided, it is important to ensure that you clean your hands in order to help prevent the spread of infection.
For more information on the top five tips to help combat Healthcare Associated Infection click here.
Remember – Alcohol based hand rubs are provided in every major hospital in Scotland.
