Hand Hygiene

Handwashing Facts

Handwashing Handout

Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Practicing good hand hygiene gets rid of bacteria and viruses from contact with other people or surfaces. Follow these five steps every time.

1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or an air dryer.

Cover Your Cough and Sneeze

Cover Your Cough and Sneeze Handout

Respiratory infections can spread from person to person in respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person can be propelled through the air and land on the mouth or nose of people nearby. To prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, the nose and mouth should be covered with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and the tissue should be thrown in the trash immediately after use.

Masking

Masks are effective tools for preventing the spread of many respiratory illnesses, not just COVID-19. Wearing a mask when experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness can significantly reduce transmission in the school setting.

Vaccinations

Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations is essential to prevent illness and to prevent severe illness from some infections. 

For more information on preventing illness, visit this link: Illness Prevention Information