Proper hand washing can help your family have a healthier winter — when many viruses are passed from person to person. These tips can help.
Here’s how to wash your hands most effectively:
■ Use soap and warm, running water.
■ Rub your hands vigorously for 20 seconds.
■ Wash all surfaces, including backs of hands, wrists, between fingers, tips of fingers and under fingernails.
■ Rinse your hands well.
■ Dry hands with a paper towel.
Always wash your hands after:
■ Going to the toilet or changing diapers
■ Coughing/sneezing or using a tissue
■ Handling raw meat or poultry
■ Touching lacerations/cuts, sores or infected areas on the skin
■ Handling or playing with pets
■ Touching dirty kitchen equipment, utensils, dishes or work surfaces
Always wash your hands before:
■ Cooking or handling ready-to-eat foods, such as breads, deli meats, cheese, fruits and vegetables
■ Eating
— Source: Kansas Department of Health and Environment