Clean Hands Wave Good-Bye To Germs

Fears of contracting swine flu have many Americans fearful of shaking hands with friends and business associates. You can take precautions by washing your hands, sneezing into the crook of your arm (instead of your hand), and keeping your fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth. National Hand Washing Awareness Week is Dec. 6 to 12. Wash your hands whenever they look dirty and before preparing food, eating, giving medicine, touching a sick person, and inserting or removing contact lenses. Wash your hands after preparing food (especially raw poultry), using the toilet or changing a diaper, treating wounds, and handling garbage.

Moms have been advising their children to wash their hands since the beginning of time. But it's helpful to review the proper technique. The Mayo Clinic advises: wet your hands with running water, then apply liquid, bar or powder soap and lather well. Rub your hands vigorously for at least 20 seconds, and scrub the backs of your hands and wrists, between your fingers, and under your fingernails. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel or air dryer. In a public restroom, use the towel to turn off the faucet and open the door on your way out. By the way, antibacterial soap is no more effective at killing germs than regular soap.

Children might enjoy the entertaining Henry The Hand website, which teaches healthy hygiene habits and has links to songs, videos and games.