washing hands with soap by UofL Health Louisville KY

Did you know?

  • A person has more bacteria on their body than there are people in the United States.
  • On each square centimeter of your skin there are about 1,500 bacteria.
  • There are about 21,000 germs per square inch on work desks.
  • There is an average of 229,000 germs per square inch on frequently touched faucet handles.

The worst germ hiding places include: work desk, kitchen sink (worse than bathroom), dishcloth/sponge, garbage can, refrigerator, bathroom doorknob, keyboards, escalator handrails, shopping cart handles, picnic tables, light switches, remote controls, toys, bathroom cups, pet cages, and writing utensils.

Hand washing prevents the spread of germs, and most diseases can be prevented with proper hand hygiene.

Don’t forget to wash your hands with soap and warm running water.

After:

  • Using the restroom or changing diapers
  • Coughing or sneezing
  • Soiling hands
  • Handling raw meat/poultry or unwashed fruits and veggies
  • Touching animals
  • Smoking, eating or drinking
  • Touching sores, lacerations or infected areas
  • Being outside

Before:

  • Handling food
  • Eating
  • Giving medication
  • Putting in contacts
  • Touching ready-to-eat food/snacks

Hand washing poster with tips for effectively washing your hands

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Christina Kern

Christina Kern joined UofL Physicians in 2013, where she now serves as strategic marketing and communications manager. She has 11 years of experience in marketing and communications, and is a two-time graduate of Campbellsville University in Campbellsville, Ky.

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