National Infection Control Week concludes with a reminder for people to “Clean Your Hands!” - It only takes 15 seconds
Infection Control Week has been recognized in Canada since 1989. This week is an opportunity for residents of Waterloo Region to reflect on the importance of infection prevention and control. This year, Public Health is focusing on hand hygiene practices. Cleaning your hands is one of the best ways to help stop the spread of germs and infection. In only 15 seconds you can protect yourself and others!
Did you know that just because your hand look clean, it doesn’t mean that they ARE clean?
Remember to clean your hands before and after:
- Preparing, serving or eating food
- Putting in contact lenses
- Treating a cut/wound
- Caring for someone who is sick or is very young (newborns)
Clean your hands after:
- Handling raw meat
- Coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
- Using the washroom
- Changing diapers
- Handling animals, including pets
Whether cleaning your hands with soap and water or alcohol based hand rub, ensure that you lather and rub your hands for at least 15 seconds. If your hands look dirty, it is best to use soap and water to clean your hands.
The steps to cleaning your hands:
To clean hands with soap and water:
- Wet hands, using warm water
- Use enough liquid soap to cover all areas of your hands
- Lather and scrub hands for at least 15 seconds
- Rinse under warm running water
- Dry with paper towel
- Turn off water with paper towel
To clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub:
- Use enough alcohol-based hand rub to cover all areas of your hands
- Rub hands for at least 15 seconds or until product is dry on your hands
Cleaning your hands frequently and as often as necessary with a 15 second scrub can keep you and those you love healthy anytime, anywhere.
Additional information about infection control can be obtained by calling 519-575-4400 ext. 5147 or by visiting the Region’s website at http://chd.region.waterloo.on.ca
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Media Contact:
Candace Harrington
Marketing and Communications
Region of Waterloo Public Health
Ph: 519-883-2244
Cell: 519.501.7598
CaHarrington@regionofwaterloo.ca