December 2nd – 8th is National Handwashing Awareness Week! Hand hygiene is extremely important, as it prevents up to 50% of diarrhea-related diseases, and 16% of lung infections, along with significantly improving the overall health of millions around the globe. Even utilizing a bottle of hand sanitizer in the classroom or workspace can improve one’s health and reduce the number of sick days of up to 20%. Though many are aware of the importance of hand hygiene, over 50% of Americans have reported witnessing another person leave a restroom without washing their hands, after using public exercise equipment, or transportation services. Therefore, the Henry the Hand Foundation wants to spread awareness of hand hygiene.
Henry the Hand Foundation
Henry the Hand Foundation created 4 principles of handwashing:
- Wash your hands when they are dirty and before eating
- Do not cough into hands
- Do not sneeze into hands
- Above all, do not put your fingers in your eyes, nose or mouth
This foundation is mainly involved in encouraging hand hygiene and provides several programs and tool kits to improve awareness among children and adults to increase hand washing and sanitation. They also offer other “Reinforcement Tools” for businesses, communities, and families.
Remember to always keep your hands squeaky clean, and check the Henry the Hand Foundation today!
Sources:
Consumer Health Digest. (2018). World Hand Hygiene Day: What Is The Motive Behind This Global Campaign. Retrieved from: https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/health-awareness/world-hand-hygiene-day.html.
Henry the Hand Foundation. (2018). Henry the Hand Foundation. Retrieved from: https://www.henrythehand.com/.