What is the best way to practice good hand cleaning (hygiene)?

Keeping your hands clean is essential to prevent catching the flu. The best methods are:

• Washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice) is the best way to keep your hands from spreading the virus.

• Alcohol-based hand cleaners containing at least 60% alcohol are also effective.
   
• If soap and water are not available and alcohol-based products are not allowed in the school, other hand sanitizers that do not contain alcohol may be useful for cleaning hands. However, they may not be as effective as alcohol-based sanitizers.

Be sure to see the Handwashing video for a demonstration.

Last Updated: 08/07/2009

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• Preventing the Flu